GirlUp (BruGen) leads empowerment efforts in Brunei
Amid the bustling activity within the Sultanate, a palpable sense of determination fills the air, as both individuals and organisations labour tirelessly towards the shared goal of sculpting a brighter future for their community.
At the core of this vibrant city, GirlUp (BruGen) shines brightly as a symbol of hope and empowerment, its mission reverberating through the streets and aligning with the dreams of Bruneian women.
Within the backdrop of boundless potential, the group passionately pursues transformative action, amplifying the voices of women and striving for a society that embraces inclusivity and equity.
EMPOWERING INITIATIVES
Founded in 2010 by the United Nations Foundation, Girl Up has emerged as a dynamic catalyst for gender justice and community empowerment that centres on empowering girls and young women as a global initiative that aims to accelerate social change and foster leadership development.
In Brunei, GirlUp (BruGen) embodies this vision with a mission to cultivate leadership aspirations among Bruneian women, particularly in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, while also prioritising mental health support and advocating for flexible work spaces conducive to parenting.
With a commitment to tangible action, GirlUp (BruGen) has already completed impactful projects such as the ‘Ummah for Ummah Project for Tabung Kemanusiaan Rakyat Palestin di Gaza 2023’ initiative and authored themed articles on pressing issues like sexual assault and harassment.
Looking ahead, the organisation is gearing up for innovative ventures like art therapy fundraising and the Young Wisdom Institute projects, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to uplifting communities and creating positive change.
AWARENESS ADVOCATE
In the Sultanate, conversations about sexual assault and harassment are often shrouded in taboo, creating barriers that hinder women and girls from seeking support. Mental health, too, remains stigmatised, further amplifying the silence experienced by survivors.
This culture of secrecy can even jeopardise careers and livelihoods when victims attempt to speak out. Through open dialogue and de-stigmatisation efforts, GirlUp (BruGen) aims to empower women and girls in Brunei by addressing these issues head-on. Their recent initiative, spearheading an awareness-raising article on sexual assault, exemplifies their proactive approach to combatting gender-based violence within our community.
UNDERSTANDING SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Citing the Cambridge Dictionary, representatives from GirlUp (BruGen) explained that sexual harassment encompasses unwanted or offensive sexual attention, suggestions, or discourse, particularly from an employer or someone in a position of authority.
Forms of sexual harassment vary, including verbal, non-verbal, and physical manifestations. Verbal harassment involves inappropriate comments or catcalling, while non-verbal harassment can occur through sexually explicit emails or messages. Physical harassment entails unwanted physical contact or touching.
To shed light on the prevalence of sexual harassment and provide a platform for survivors, the group conducted a survey inviting women to anonymously share their experiences. “Shockingly, respondents revealed instances of being taken advantage of by male companions since childhood,” said one of the group’s representative.
“Some recounted experiencing harassment as early as five years old, enduring threats and fear of repercussions if they sought help. These experiences left them feeling ashamed and fearful, particularly of confiding in family members.”
The group’s survey also found another survivor who recounted being coerced into following her assailant and then forcibly restrained, resulting in ongoing periods of depression triggered by the memories of these traumatic incidents. These testimonies underscore the pervasive issue of sexual harassment and assault in Brunei. Taboos and shame often silence victims, preventing them from seeking support.
“Through destigmatising this topic, we at GirlUp (BruGen) strive to also encourage the Bruneian community to be active in preventing and saving yourselves, and others, from sexual assault and harassment,” said the group.
In their article on sexual assault, GirlUp (BruGen) also underscored that encountering or witnessing sexual harassment demands swift and compassionate responses. Victims should prioritise their safety and remove themselves from threatening situations, while witnesses must assess the urgency of intervention, intervening promptly if the harassment escalates or poses immediate danger. Documenting incidents is crucial for authenticating reports and seeking justice, said the group, as detailed notes, including the time, place, and individuals involved, provide essential evidence.
“Offering support and seeking professional help can aid victims in processing their trauma and navigating the aftermath of harassment.”
SUPPORT RESOURCES
“We at GirlUp (BruGen) would like to express our sincerest gratitude to these people who have courageously shared their stories to us. We would like to tell you that your bravery not only brings awareness to the topic of sexual assault, but also contributes to a safer community to survivors alike.”
The group emphasised that if urgent support is needed, individuals are encouraged to reach out to their school or workplace counsellor, or contact the authorities, and for those struggling or knowing someone in need, there are also two 24-hour hotlines offering immediate crisis support: Talian Harapan at 145 and Talian Anak at 121 for issues related to child abuse. – Izah Azahari
