Human Writes: Focus on preventing violence, not just catching bullies

There has been a wave of violence in Malaysian schools recently, including a brutal murder and gang rape in October 2025. — Picture posed by models/The Star

An increased police presence and patrols, spot checks, metal detectors, CCTV cameras – these are among the measures proposed by the government in response to a wave of violence in Malaysian schools, which included a brutal murder and gang rape in October 2025. Caning is also being considered. 

Yet research has shown time and again that these measures are of no proven value and may actually be harmful, says consultant paediatrician and child rights advocate Dr Amar-Singh HSS.