Mara chairman calls for end to movies, dramas on bullying

Mara chairman Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has called for an end to movies and dramas that depict bullying, warning that such portrayals could result in copycat behaviour among youths. Asyraf, a vocal advocate against bullying in schools, expressed concern that films or series intended to tackle the issue may actually promote it. In a recent post on Threads, Asyraf referred to the ringleaders as "taikos" and "otais," two terms he uses to describe perpetrators.

The call for an end to such content came shortly after a murder investigation was launched in Negeri Sembilan following the death of a 16-year-old student at a sports school in Kuala Pilah. The deceased's family alleges he was assaulted by a senior student, and a 16-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the incident, which reportedly occurred around 8pm in the school's dormitory.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has ordered an immediate audit of the school's safety measures. In a separate statement, Asyraf expressed sorrow over the student's death, emphasizing that if the allegations prove true, immediate action is required. He reiterated his firm stance on the "you touch, you go" policy for Mara's educational institutions.