JOHOR BARU: The Education Ministry has recorded a rise in bullying cases and sexual misconduct among students over the past three years.
Education Ministry director-general Azman Adnan said that, based on the Students Discipline System (SSDM), there were 3,883 reported cases of bullying in 2022, which increased to 6,528 cases in 2023.
"We recorded a total of 6,208 bullying cases up to October 2024. Additionally, the police reported a 26.5% increase in sexual misconduct cases involving children, rising from 1,239 in 2022 to 1,567 cases.
“In response, the Education Ministry has implemented proactive measures to combat these issues,” he said when met by reporters after officiating the "Gerakan Kepimpinan Madani: Hentikan Buli" programme at SMK Mutiara Rini, here, on Sunday (Dec 15).
Azman added that among its initiatives, the ministry launched the “Nadi Keunggulan” framework, focusing on seven core pillars.
“Of these, the second pillar emphasises the development of morality, ethics, and integrity (karamah insaniah) to prevent negative behaviours such as bullying and sexual harassment among students,” he said.
He added that the ministry has also introduced a Bullying Complaints Portal to monitor cases effectively.
“This portal provides four main channels for reporting; the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA), email, telephone hotlines, and WhatsApp.
“In addition, schools have reinstated the use of Discipline Complaint Boxes to allow students to submit written complaints about bullying or other disciplinary issues,” he said.
To track and address misconduct, bullying, and inappropriate behaviour, the ministry records incidents in the SSDM system.
“This data informs the planning and implementation of targeted interventions.
“At the school level, guidance counsellors and school counsellors carry out continuous interventions to ensure the welfare, safety, and well-being of students.
“All bullying and sexual misconduct cases must be reported to the school principals or headmasters for further action,” he said, adding that the Education Ministry remains committed to addressing these challenges to create a safer learning environment for all students.
