Most killings were impulsive

Of 165 intimate-partner murders between 2017 and June 2023, 144 happened without prior planning. Only 21 cases showed evidence of premeditation.

Disputes and jealousy triggered deaths

Police say most murders occurred spontaneously, triggered by escalating conflicts like misunderstandings, jealousy or arguments that eventually led to killing.

165 cases over six years

Intimate-partner murders accounted for 6.2% of the 2,644 total murders recorded nationwide during the period.

Married couples most affected

Of the 165 cases, 99 involved married couples, 58 involved boyfriends and girlfriends, and eight involved former husbands killing former wives.

Domestic disputes topped motives

Domestic disputes accounted for 51 cases, followed by jealousy involving a third party with 45. Financial problems, drugs and intoxication also played roles.

Few victims reported threats beforehand

Only 16 of the 165 victims had previously lodged police reports against the eventual suspects, showing most had never reported concerns before the incident.

“This shows that the majority of victims had never lodged a police report before the incident”

Most cases prosecuted in court

Police said 138 of the 165 cases, or 83.6%, had been charged in court.

No alarming trend detected

Bukit Aman said the pattern doesn't show a significant increase, but the Criminal Investigation Department will continue monitoring and strengthening prevention efforts.