KOTA KINABALU: Stricter measures must be taken to address bullying cases, says Likas assemblyman Tham Yun Fook.
The Opposition representative said that with the latest student assault case reported in the city, it is clear that bullying incidents have become increasingly violent, organised and public.
“This indicates that existing prevention mechanisms, counselling systems and disciplinary measures are no longer sufficient to effectively curb the problem,” he said in a statement Thursday (May 28).
Tham said schools should be safe places for students to learn and grow, not environments where children live in fear.
He said circulating videos of the incident suggest this is no longer a simple dispute between students, but a serious case involving group assault, intimidation and humiliation.
Even more alarming is the allegation that the victim had been threatened not to inform her family or the police, he said.
He stressed that such behaviour crossed the boundaries of school disciplinary issues and became a challenge to the rule of law and basic moral values.
As such, Tham urged the state to strengthen anti-bullying mechanisms and enforcement procedures in schools.
He also called for stricter disciplinary action against students involved in violent behaviour and to make counselling sessions and parental involvement mandatory.
“There should also be enhanced cooperation between schools and the police, and promotion of moral education and anti-bullying awareness campaigns,” he said.
He added there must be strict monitoring of the misuse of social media groups for bullying, intimidation or planning violent acts.
“At the same time, I call upon parents, schools and society as a whole to pay closer attention to children’s emotional well-being and social circles before more tragedies occur,” he said.
Tham said any form of bullying and violence must never be silenced or tolerated.
He said society must firmly say “no” to school violence and ensure that victims receive the protection and support they deserve.
“I hope the police will complete their investigation swiftly and take appropriate legal action against all those involved,” he said.
He said this is necessary to deliver justice to the victim and send a clear message that violence will not be tolerated.
It was earlier reported that a Form One student was beaten by a group of girls outside a school compound on May 22, following a misunderstanding.
Police and the State Education Department are investigating and will be calling the parents of those involved to facilitate probes.
