Divorced Muslim women in Malaysia at financial disadvantage, study finds
Women’s rights group calls for urgent legal reforms to address systemic barriers
PETALING JAYA, Malaysia (MNTV) – A new study has highlighted significant financial challenges faced by divorced Muslim women in Malaysia, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
The study was conducted by the women’s rights group Sisters in Islam (SIS).
According to the research, many women in the B40 income group experience financial hardships due to systemic barriers and failures in enforcement.
The study, which surveyed 124 women from low-income households, found that only 12.9% of those who filed joint property claims received their rightful share, while just 5.6% obtained spousal maintenance.
Many participants reported earning between RM1,000 ($225) and RM3,999 ($903) per month, with expenses frequently exceeding their income by 5% to 14%.
As a result, many women face mounting debts from housing and car loans and medical bills.
Despite court rulings in their favor, many former husbands fail to comply with financial support orders, leaving their ex-wives and children in distress.
In response, SIS has called for urgent reforms, including the establishment of a child support agency, strengthening legal frameworks, and better enforcement of financial judgments.
“This study reveals the harsh realities faced by divorced Muslim women, where systemic barriers not only deny them justice but also force them into poverty,” said SIS spokesperson Ameena Siddiqi.
“We must address these challenges through robust legal reforms, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and targeted support programs that prioritize the well-being of women and their children,” she added.
Former Malaysian judge Ismail Yahya emphasized that while Islamic law provides clear financial protections, the implementation of these protections in courts is flawed.
He stressed the importance of strict adherence to Section 47 of the Islamic Family Law Enactment/Act, which mandates that all claims be filed with the divorce application to ensure justice.
The findings underscore the urgent need for legal reforms and stronger enforcement to ensure that divorced Muslim women are not left financially vulnerable.
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