Kids’ voice: Azalina (below) says she will meet with students from primary schools (above) to universities for their views on combating bullying. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star.
GEORGE TOWN: The government will expand its anti-bullying town hall sessions to include students from primary schools up to universities as part of efforts to gather feedback before the Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill is tabled in December.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the engagements, beginning next month, will cover boarding schools, Maktab Sains Rendah Mara (MRSM), universities and student associations.
“I intend to engage directly with children. In October, I will meet students face-to-face to hear their voices,” she said after a town hall at SJKC Aik Hua 3 in Sungai Ara yesterday.
Azalina said she would meet university students alongside Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, with participation expected from student NGOs and associations.
She said children’s views were vital to shaping the legislation, and the initiative is part of the government’s effort to ensure a more inclusive and child-focused response to bullying.
She said the proposed Anti-Bullying Tribunal will give victims and families an alternative avenue to resolve cases outside the courts, particularly when they feel let down by existing processes.
“The people have been clear. They want a tribunal with real powers, not one that is merely cosmetic. It must be decisive, swift and effective,” she said.
Azalina said the Bill is not only about penalties but also about ensuring accessible channels for restorative justice.
The government has yet to finalise whether the tribunal’s scope will cover cases involving those under or over 18.
On defining bullying, she said, “Unlike sexual harassment, which is easier to identify, bullying is broader and often subjective. What may be acceptable in one setting may not be acceptable elsewhere. That is why assessments can differ.”
She added that while previous town halls saw strong participation from teachers and principals, it was equally important to listen directly from students.
“If we are going to do this, it must be done properly and not just symbolically. The approach must be very pro-child, child-centric and not burdensome.”
On Sept 12, Azalina announced that the Bill is expected to be tabled in December, with engagement sessions to be held nationwide. The first town hall took place on Sept 11. The public can give suggestions through https://petari.bheuu.gov.my.
