ISKANDAR PUTERI: Proposals to extend the age group in the Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill to those above 18 is being considered, says Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
She said this was among matters raised at Anti-Bullying Town Hall sessions and via the Institutional Reform Map (PetaRI) portal.
She said the majority wanted the Bill to have a broader scope, given that bullying cases are not only prevalent in schools but have also been reported in higher education institutions as well as police and military colleges.
“If it is opened to all age groups, it would not only involve the Education Ministry but also Higher Education Ministry, public and private educational institutions and even military and police colleges, as elements of bullying also occur there.
“So far, there has been significant feedback calling for a more open approach, but the matter is still under review,” she told reporters after attending an anti-bullying townhall session.
Azalina also said the Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill is expected to serve as a deterrent for would-be perpetrators and reduce the number of such cases in the country.
This is because cases can be resolved swiftly as the system would mirror the Sexual Harassment Tribunal, where faster resolution of complaints has led to greater awareness and fewer reported cases, she explained.
“With the tribunal in place, perpetrators will think twice before acting, knowing that complaints can be dealt with quickly,” she said.
Azalina said the government is still gathering public feedback on the proposed law through townhalls and PetaRI.
“We have received many constructive suggestions from teachers and parents, though some are also concerned about the expectations and additional responsibilities on educators. That is why the law is being shaped to balance all perspectives,” she said.
The Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year.
