Revenge pornography is the non-consensual distribution of digital intimate images (NCII). It is a modern form of extortion and sexual abuse, complicated by the fact that some photos may have been willingly shared. However, consent was never given for their distribution, or there is fear that they may be distributed. While the United Kingdom has introduced specific laws criminalising revenge porn, Malaysia and Indonesia still rely on broad statutes that do not fully address its complexities. This study uses a mixed-method approach, including doctrinal analysis of Malaysian and Indonesian legal frameworks and empirical data from a survey of 201 Malaysian respondents and an expert interview. Digital criminal law is expanding, but legislation and policy have not kept pace with the complexity of these crimes, leaving a unclear focus for enforcement and legal reform. This article contributes by combining legal and empirical analysis to examine the doctrinal, cultural, and enforcement gaps surrounding revenge pornography in Malaysia and Indonesia, proposing targeted legislative and regional reforms. The survey results show that although 56.7% of respondents have heard of revenge pornography, significant misconceptions about consent still exist, with 10% believing that sharing intimate images with a partner implies consent for public sharing. Female respondents report higher victimisation rates, while male respondents are more likely to view leaked images. In Indonesia, the Pornography Act 2008 and the Information and Electronic Transactions Law 2016 prohibit distributing obscene material. Yet, enforcement remains weak and often undermined by patriarchal norms. Some Malaysians are aware of revenge porn, but protections are still lacking. A comparative analysis reveals that Malaysia rejects the idea of implied consent in public discussion, but this view is not reflected in its laws. Indonesia has relevant legislation but offers weak institutional protections for victims. There is an urgent need for dedicated laws, stronger victim-centered remedies, and regional cooperation. Only through these reforms can revenge pornography be addressed as a transnational digital harm, ensuring better justice and protection for victims.
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