PETALING JAYA: There should be no knee-jerk reactions following the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir, says Malaysian Bar president Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab.
"We cannot continue to have knee-jerk reactions only when tragedy strikes," he said on Thursday (Aug 14).
"Proper procedures, preventive measures and accountability mechanisms must be firmly set in place," he added.
He said the Malaysian Bar stands ready to work with the authorities to address bullying.
"With more than 24,000 members nationwide, we can contribute through school engagement, awareness campaigns and talks at educational institutions," said Mohamad Ezri.
He said the aim is to educate students and empower victims while promoting zero tolerance for bullying, adding that the case shows that despite public awareness and calls for reform, school bullying persists.
"The very spaces meant to nurture young minds too often expose them to intimidation, violence and neglect," said Mohamad Ezri.
He noted that bullying has profound and lasting effects on the young.
"Children are in formative stages of psychological, social and moral development," he said.
"Exposure to sustained bullying can lead to lifelong trauma, disrupted education, social withdrawal, self-harm and even suicide," added Mohamad Ezri.
He said preliminary post-mortem findings raise disturbing questions about apparent procedural failures.
Mohamad Ezri cited the lack of an immediate autopsy despite visible injuries and ignored complaints and warning signs.
He also referred to alleged harassment within the school environment that was left unaddressed.
