Three years of bullying at school puts 15-year-old at risk of hearing loss

In an incident that occurred at a secondary school in Shah Alam, 15-year-old Adryz Adrian suffered severe injuries following an alleged bullying attack by a group of students. His mother, Nurhaswaty Zamani, claims that Adryz experienced head and ear trauma, which left him with the potential for hearing loss. The teenager did not report the incident until two days after it took place, suggesting fear may have prevented him from speaking up earlier.

Upon returning home, Adryz told his mother about the attack, which prompted his father to immediately visit the school and his son's teacher. Doctors conducted various examinations, including scans and hearing tests, after Adryz experienced pain, swelling, and ringing in his right ear. Medical professionals indicated that Adryz's hearing impairment had persisted during two screening tests, although it had slightly improved following treatment.

His condition has now necessitated regular medical follow-ups and a two-week medical leave at home. Nurhaswaty also expressed concern over the psychological impact the assault has had on her son, who has become quieter and more withdrawn since the incident. Adryz had reportedly been subjected to harassment by the same group of students since his freshman year of high school, with previous incidents remaining unreported to his mother until the latest event.

The family's legal adviser, Datuk Azar Irwan Arifin, stated that the family intends to initiate civil proceedings against the alleged perpetrator and the student's parents or guardians. Such damages may encompass Adryz's injuries, medical expenses, and exemplary damages to be determined by the court. He emphasized that schools should be safe environments, rather than sources of fear for children, and called for stronger action against bullying from the Education Ministry.