Experts Urge Independent Intervention to Address On-Campus Bullying in Malaysia

In response to recent cases of on-campus bullying, the Malaysian Youth Council is advocating for independent bodies to intervene in educational institutions unable to resolve such incidents. Council president Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid suggests involving external organizations like the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) to ensure impartial oversight, safeguard student welfare, and enforce accountability. He also emphasized the need for stronger government oversight, stricter anti-bullying laws, and comprehensive reforms, particularly within institutions with hierarchical cultures where bullying is more prevalent.

Additionally, Wan Azliana Wan Adnan, president of the Malaysian Women’s Aspiration Association (Aswa), is calling for an Anti-Bullying Act to make institutions legally responsible for addressing bullying, highlighting that bullying should be treated as a crime rather than just a disciplinary issue. Advocates argue that stronger legal frameworks, whistleblower protections, and criminal charges for severe cases could serve as effective deterrents to reduce bullying in educational settings.