ALOR SETAR: A PAS Muslimat delegate wants the government to fast-track an anti-bullying law following a sharp rise in such incidents in schools around the country.
Warning that inaction could worsen the situation, Perlis Muslimat chief Husna Hashim said the law must contain a clear definition of physical, mental, emotional, social, and cyber bullying, as well as protection for victims.
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"The Education, Higher Education, and Youth and Sports as well as the Human Resources ministries must provide comprehensive anti-bullying education programmes in schools, higher education institutions, youth organisations, and workplaces," she said while tabling a motion on social issues at the 71st PAS Muktamar here on Tuesday (Sept 16).
Husna also called on the government to form a special national anti-bullying complaints channel that is easily accessible, confidential, and safe for all levels of society.
"We also call for the establishment of a mechanism for deliberation in each school so that any dissatisfaction or concerns of students can be discussed and resolved in harmony," she said.
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She also urged the authorities to make it compulsory for all schools to be fully equipped with CCTVs before the 2026 school session.
The government should also support non-governmental organisation (NGO) initiatives, civil society, educational institutions, and communities in anti-bullying campaigns, with special government funding for prevention, education and recovery, she added.
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Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said had said on Friday (Sept 12) that the earliest the highly anticipated Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill can be tabled in Parliament is December.
She said the government was also considering whether or not to allow the proposed tribunal to prosecute perpetrators aged 18 and above.
