JOHOR BAHRU: Wanita MCA's Legal Advisory & Women's Aid Centre (Lawa) is here to assist women who need help, says Barisan Nasional's Tangkak candidate Ong Chee Siang

       He said that since he started assisting locals two years ago, he received many requests from women who applied for legal aid.

       "Most of them faced problems related to domestic violence and discrimination at the workplace," said Ong during the launch of Lawa at Barisan's operations room in Tangkak, Ledang on March 5 (Saturday).

       Also present during the launch was Pahang Wanita MCA chairman Datuk Lim Nget Yoon and Ong also paid tribute to Wanita MCA chairman Datuk Heng Seai Kie for the Lawa initiative.

       Ong said Lawa had successfully resolved most of the issues that he forwarded and added that some are in the process of being tried in court.

       "Therefore, I hope the public will not remain silent when faced with legal problems. Instead, use the correct channel to solve it like how Lawa is ready to help," added Ong.

       Ong said that Lawa was set up by Wanita MCA in Dec 2014 and it aims to provide free legal advice and services to women, defend women's rights, provide counselling to those in need and to help solve women's legal problems.

       Ong added that Lawa provides legal assistance to those in need regardless of race and religion.

       "Anyone who needs assistance, Lawa is ready to lend a hand," said Ong.

       Ong also said that for domestic violence or similar cases, Lawa will provide lawyers who are knowledgeable on women's issues.

       "To date, Lawa has received over 600 applications to help those facing domestic violence, sexual harassment and other problems. The services provided by Lawa are free and all expenses are borne by Lawa," said Ong.

       Ong said MCA has always been committed to assisting the public, and aside from Lawa, it has other initiatives such as the MCA headquarters' Public Services and Complaints Department led by Datuk Seri Michael Chong.

       For legal consultation, Lawa can be reached from Mondays to Fridays between 8.45am to 5.30pm via 03-2203 3884 and 012-386 3884.