Schools still first channel to seek justice for bullying, Anti-Bullying Tribunal (TAB) only next option, says Azalina

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 — Authorities in Malaysia have recently established the Anti-Bullying Tribunal (TAB) to handle cases of bullying in schools. Schools remain the primary place for students to seek justice for bullying incidents, but the TAB serves as an alternative when schools are unable or unwilling to address the issue. DATUK SERI AZALINA OTHMAN SAID, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), emphasized that the TAB's role is to provide an impartial resolution mechanism outside of the courts.

The tribunal has already handled 68 cases since its launch in June, with the majority of cases (42) coming from secondary school students aged 13 to 17. The largest number of reported cases came from Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. The rise in cases highlights a growing awareness of bullying, which could potentially reduce incidents in the future as the TAB holds perpetrators accountable.

The Cabinet is also considering extending TAB services to adults aged over 18 who experience bullying, although this would require further deliberation with the Higher Education Ministry and the Human Resources Ministry. In line with successful models from countries like New Zealand and the United Kingdom, Azalina highlighted the importance of providing trauma handling training, private counselling sessions, and psychological interventions for teachers dealing with bullying cases.