KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has urged the government to enact an Anti-Bullying Act that would impose strict punishments on bullies and hold accountable any parties negligent in protecting students’ safety in schools and higher learning institutions.
The Perikatan Nasional chairman said he took note of the Attorney General’s Chambers’ decision to expedite the inquest into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir, stressing that the inquest must be conducted transparently, comprehensively, and in accordance with the law in order to uncover the truth and deliver justice.
“The incident of bullying that caused injuries and death to a student cannot be taken lightly," the Bersatu president said said in a Facebook post Monday (Aug 18).
"It must not be allowed to become part of the culture, especially in our schools and universities,” he said in a statement today.
According to him, clear legal and policy frameworks are urgently needed to safeguard students from abuse, whether physical or emotional — that endangers their safety and lives.
“With an Anti-Bullying Act, enforcement authorities will have stronger measures to protect students from acts of cruelty. Firm legal action must be taken to ensure such heartbreaking incidents never happen again,” he stressed.
He likened bullying in schools, particularly boarding schools, to a “giant elephant in the room” that continues to persist if left unchecked.
“We must stand together to eradicate this culture of bullying which I believe is still widespread today. Let us not allow these vile practices that threaten the safety and lives of our children to continue,” he said.
Muhyiddin also extended his condolences to Zara Qairina’s parents and family, praying that they remain strong in facing the grief of losing their loved one.
The 15-year-old student’s death has sparked public outcry and renewed calls for comprehensive anti-bullying measures across the nation.
