By M. Krishnamoorthy
Every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. Yet in Malaysia today, a staggering 84% of children under 18 have experienced bullying in some form—be it online harassment, verbal abuse, or physical violence. These aren’t just statistics. They are cries for help.
The tragic case of Zara Qairina in Sabah, which gripped the nation, is a painful reminder: bullying isn’t just cruel—it can be fatal.
Who Holds the Power to Stop It?
Not just politicians. Not just policies. The real power lies with parents, teachers, and students. Bullying thrives in silence and indifference. It ends when communities choose courage over complicity.
A bully inflicts pain—through fists, words, exclusion, or digital cruelty—and does so repeatedly. This behaviour is learned, reinforced by media, peer pressure, and unchecked aggression. But it can be unlearned. Families must be the first line of defence, instilling courtesy and morality from the earliest age.
Why Prevention Matters
Bullying doesn’t just bruise bodies—it breaks spirits. It isolates, intimidates, and erodes a child’s sense of self-worth. It breeds fear, not friendship. And it has no respect for race, religion, or background.
At its core, bullying is about power—about dominating others to feel superior. If schools don’t teach respect and empathy, we risk raising a generation numb to cruelty and blind to compassion. A Call to Action from Malaysia’s Leaders
Malacca’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Mohd Ali Rustam, echoed the urgency: bullying damages mental health and can lead to tragic consequences. In support of His Majesty Yang diPertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim’s call for a nationwide anti-bullying campaign, Tun Mohd Ali proposed a bold initiative—an education and competition-based programme themed Kesopanan dan Kesusilaan (Courtesy and Morality), the fifth principle of the Rukun Negara.
This isn’t just a slogan. It’s a moral compass. From primary schools to universities, this programme aims to embed noble values into the hearts of our youth. As Tun Mohd Ali said:
Understanding the Four Faces of Bullying
According to experts at Anthem Strong Families (USA), bullying manifests in four distinct ways:
Cyberbullying, in particular, can cross into criminal territory—making it all the more urgent to act.
Six Ways to Stop Bullying (UNICEF Guidelines)
Here’s how parents and teachers can be proactive allies:
1. Educate Children
Help them recognise bullying and understand its impact.
2. Talk Often and Honestly
Create safe spaces for children to share their experiences and emotions.
3. Model Positive Behaviour
Teach kindness, inclusion, and courage—especially when witnessing bullying.
4. Build Confidence
Encourage hobbies and group activities that foster self-esteem and friendships.
5. Be a Role Model
Show respect in your own interactions—online and offline.
6. Stay Involved Online
Know the platforms your child uses and guide them through digital risks.
A National Responsibility
Ending bullying isn’t just a school issue—it’s a societal one. From living rooms to classrooms, from WhatsApp groups to newsrooms, Malaysians must stand united. The media can amplify this movement, but it’s our daily choices that will shape the culture.
Let us raise a generation that chooses empathy over ego, courage over cruelty, and unity over silence.
(The views expressed here are entirely those of the writer)
WE