PASIR MAS: A total of 41 army officers and rank-and-file soldiers have been dismissed for bullying or abusing lower-ranked personnel since 2019, says Malaysian Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan.
He said of the total, action was taken against 29 rank-and-file soldiers and 12 officers, including privates, majors and lieutenants.
"We take a serious view of bullying or abuse… several cases have taken place over the past five years and drastic action has been taken.
"There is no compromise … whether it involves an officer or from lower-ranks," he told said after visiting the 8th Brigade Operations area in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri at the Tok O army post in Rantau Panjang here on Monday (April 7).
Muhammad Hafizuddeain said he views acts of bullying or abuse as a betrayal of the military as lower-ranked personnel was seen as a "brother or sister" who should be protected.
He also spoke about the death of 21-year-old Private Muhammad Muqriz Aseri who was allegedly bullied.
"Private Muhammad Muqriz Aseri's fate is very much regretted and has a significant impact on the military institution," he said, adding that suspects involved have been remanded by Miri police until April 9.
He said although the case is under police investigation, the army's internal board is also carrying out its own probe to review procedures carried out by the unit involved.
"The incident is not a tradition within the army – but an isolated incident due to the actions of certain individuals," he said.
It was previously reported that 21-year-old Muhammad Muqriz, from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, died due to blunt trauma to the chest, which caused damage to his heart. – Bernama
