ISKANDAR PUTERI: The proposed Anti-Bullying Tribunal is expected to serve as a deterrent for would-be perpetrators, as they will be aware that cases can be resolved swiftly, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) added that the system would mirror the Sexual Harassment Tribunal, where faster resolution of complaints has led to greater awareness and fewer reported cases.
“With the tribunal in place, perpetrators will think twice before acting, knowing that complaints can be dealt with quickly.
This, in turn, will encourage more awareness and reduce the number of bullying cases,” she told reporters after attending an anti-bullying townhall session held at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar here on Friday (Sept 19).
Azalina said the government is still gathering public feedback on the proposed law through townhalls and the Institutional Reform Map (PetaRI) portal.
“So far, we have received many constructive suggestions from teachers and parents, though some are also concerned about the expectations and additional responsibilities of educators. That is why the law is being shaped to balance all perspectives,” she said.
The government, she added, is studying whether the Bill should focus solely on cases involving minors under 18, or be expanded to include adults in workplaces, universities, and other institutions.
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“Bullying does not only happen in schools. It can also occur in higher learning institutions, workplaces, or even uniformed bodies such as the police or armed forces.
“That is why we are considering whether to limit the Bill to children or broaden it,” she said.
Azalina added that while the current focus is on those below 18, final decisions will be made after consultations with stakeholders including the Education Ministry, Higher Education Ministry, and other relevant agencies.
She stressed that the government is not rushing the process, as it wants to ensure the law is comprehensive and effective.
“This is the third state in our series of townhalls, and next week we will continue in other states. All input will be taken into account before the Bill is tabled in Parliament,” she said.
Azalina also encouraged members of the public who are unable to attend the townhalls to share their views online through the PetaRI portal.
“The platform is open for comments, criticisms, and proposals. The more feedback we get, the better understanding we will have of the issues on the ground,” she said.
The Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year.
