Fadhlina: Education Ministry has strengthened anti-bullying measures, but 'work isn't done'

GEORGE TOWN — The Education Ministry has bolstered anti-bullying measures, including boosting hostel supervision, enhancing complaints channels, and expanding CCTV coverage. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek disclosed that her ministry had introduced and implemented several initiatives over the years, while also rolling out new measures to tackle persisting issues.

Fadhlina empathized with parents' concerns, having once been a mother herself whose child studied in a hostel system. She emphasized that each time parents entrusted their children to the education system, they shared a collective trust that their children would return home safely. Fadhlina stressed that such trust should not be taken lightly.

Whenever a bullying case arises, the ministry must demonstrate courage to identify remaining weaknesses and rectify them. Fadhlina clarified that the work is far from complete, as long as there are students who do not feel safe at school. Among the recent measures introduced or expanded, 300 short-term employment (MySTEP) assistant wardens will assist in monitoring hostel students, particularly during nighttime hours, starting in April 2026.

The ministry also improved its bullying complaints system by introducing an anonymous complaint function on the Bullying Complaints Portal to safeguard the identities of complainants and witnesses. The ministry is collaborating with the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department to draft the Anti-Bullying Act 2026, which will establish an Anti-Bullying Tribunal to provide victims with a channel for seeking redress.

CCTV installation has been expanded in residential schools, with 200 boarding schools already equipped with CCTV in 2025 and further installation scheduled for 333 boarding schools in 2026, with an additional RM5 million allocation. The Guidelines for Managing Bullying Misconduct, introduced in 2023, serve as an official reference for schools to handle complaints, conduct investigations, impose disciplinary actions, and implement interventions.

Furthermore, Character Education will be incorporated into the 2027 school curriculum, focusing on values and character development, including integrity and empathy. The ministry is also implementing the SAFE framework, which prioritizes prevention, early intervention, and rehabilitation through measures such as peer support and focused counseling.

Fadhlina stressed that efforts to address bullying must persist as long as students remain at risk.