‘Do not compromise’: Anwar demands zero tolerance for school bullies

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for an absolute zero-tolerance policy towards bullying in Malaysian schools, warning that a culture of arrogance and intimidation cannot be allowed to take hold in educational institutions. Speaking at the Temu Anwar session at the Tuanku Bainun Teachers Training Institute in Mengkuang, Bukit Mertajam, Anwar emphasized that children should not bully others or display arrogance.

He warned that future leaders of the country should not be individuals who bully others merely because they are stronger. Anwar stressed that the responsibility of teachers and lecturers is to ensure such behavior is not tolerated and becomes entrenched in educational institutions. He reminded that education is not just about academic excellence, but also the development of good manners, moral character, and humanity among students.

Anwar highlighted the issue of bullying often overshadows other students, as media reports typically focus on the few involved in serious bullying cases, while the rest are overlooked. He urged Malaysians to respect and understand one another, noting that Malaysia's diverse races, cultures, and religions should not be an excuse to humiliate others.

With the upcoming 69th Merdeka celebrations, Anwar reminded Malaysians of the original spirit of nationhood and fraternity that helped achieve independence peacefully, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and mutual respect in shaping a prosperous nation.