KUALA LUMPUR: Bullying remains a deeply rooted issue in schools, universities, and even families, and requires urgent national attention, says Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.
Speaking at a town hall on bullying organised by the Special Select Committee on Women, Children and Community Development, Johari recalled his experiences as the son of a rubber tapper growing up in the 1970s.
“As a poor child, I saw how bullying existed even then—both in schools and in hostels. Not many could stand up to defend themselves physically or mentally.
When I entered university, bullying was also common. At that time, Universiti Malaya was the most notorious. I was ‘sado’ (muscular) then, so not many dared to disturb me,” he said in his speech when officiating the town hall at Parliament on Wednesday (Sept 10).
Johari also recounted witnessing bullying cases during his posting in the United States.
He said that in 1984, he received a distressed call from a young Malaysian student in Montana.
“She told me, ‘Sir, I want to return today. I cannot take it. American students are bullying me. If I cannot go back, I would rather get married because I cannot protect myself’,” he said.
Johari warned that while bullying leaves physical scars, the deeper damage is often to mental health.
“For some children, going to school feels like going through hell. Not everyone can withstand that mental pressure. Some are trapped in trauma, and tragically, some even commit suicide,” he said.
Johari stressed that the select committee’s findings must not be kept hidden.
“The report and subsequent debate are crucial. Eventually, the government will have to decide, but it must begin with this process. The sooner the report is completed, the better,” he told reporters.
Earlier, committee chairperson Yeo Bee Yin said the group has already tabled a statement with 17 recommendations but added that more voices must be heard.
“This is only the first town hall. We will go to schools and other places to listen to ideas and suggestions at the grassroots level.
My hope is that everyone feels free to share with the committee. Nobody will hold you accountable for what you say here. We are ready to listen,” she said in her opening remarks.
Yeo added that feedback from the sessions will be compiled and discussed with ministries before the committee puts forward long-term policy proposals.
