Bullying not just a discipline problem but a child safety issue, says Suhakam

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has declared that bullying is not only a discipline issue but also a safety concern for children, according to a recent report. Suhakam's children's commissioner emphasized that bullying must be viewed as an issue of well-being, not just a matter for schools to handle.

The report, which analyzed Malaysia's performance in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment, revealed that 27% of Malaysian students experienced bullying multiple times a month, a figure significantly higher than the 20% reported by OECD countries. This form of harassment has extended beyond the physical school environment, now occurring through digital platforms like phones and chat groups, affecting an additional 5% of Malaysian students, compared to 3% of their OECD counterparts.

Suhakam stressed that addressing bullying requires a collective effort from the entire community, including parents and guardians who must provide guidance and positive behavior at home. The commission urged society to cultivate a culture of care, empathy, and responsibility, embodying what they termed "teacher's spirit" – a commitment to protecting children from all forms of harm.