KUALA LUMPUR: An online reporting mechanism is being considered under the proposed Anti‑Bullying Act, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) said the mechanism would allow action where responses by authorities are unsatisfactory.
“The system and law we want to design allow you to approach the tribunal directly online to lodge a complaint,” she said.
“If you fear your current setting may not entertain or may be biased, the system provides an online complaint channel,” added Azalina.
She said this at the Youth and Bullying forum during the International Young Future Leaders Summit on Monday (Oct 13).
Azalina moderated the forum.
Panellists included Thiyagu Ganesan, deputy director general (Law Reforms) at the Legal Affairs Division.
They included Mohd Kamarudin Johari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia law association president, and Nur Atiqah Azrein, a Tokoh Siswa Negara 2025 finalist and newly minted lawyer.
She also referenced the Tribunal for Anti‑Sexual Harassment under the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry.
She said the tribunal led to greater public awareness of sexual harassment.
“One way to stop bad behaviour is knowing it will be reported, punishments will be swift and a hearing will be set. This will make people think twice before acting,” she added.
“It worked for sexual harassment and the government believes it can do the same for bullying,” said Azalina.
Azalina said the proposed tribunal under the Anti‑Bullying Act will be akin to TAGS.
“The purpose of the tribunal is to allow a faster process than the courts,” she said.
She added that cases within a school’s jurisdiction must be resolved by the school first, and said that those dissatisfied with a school’s decision can refer the case to the tribunal.
