FADHLINA: MOE STRESSES EDUCATIONAL APPROACH IN ADDRESSING BULLYING, NOT JUST PUNISHMENT

BUKIT MERTAJAM, Oct 5 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Education (MOE) has emphasised that the issue of bullying in schools must be addressed comprehensively through education, rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said all standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to bullying cases must also be given due attention and early awareness to ensure the protection and rights of students, as they are still underage.

“That is why, for me, the approach currently adopted by the MOE is an educational one, which may not be popular with some people, as many still believe in caning as the solution. But it is not that simple.

bootstrap slideshow

“We can take disciplinary actions such as suspending or expelling students from school, but eventually, these students will return to the education system under the MOE to be re-educated. Therefore, a punitive approach alone will not solve the problem,” she said when officiating the Anti-Bullying Roadshow at Yayasan Aman, Penanti, here today.

She also explained that the MOE is working closely with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to address bullying issues, including those classified as criminal offences.

Fadhlina said the ministry would also intensify advocacy efforts to educate students on the impact of bullying, including mental bullying, which has serious effects on their emotional well-being, especially following the enforcement of the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025 (Act A1750).

bootstrap slideshow

“The effects of mental bullying are significant and can lead to even more worrying consequences if not curbed from the beginning,” she said.

-- BERNAMA