PETALING JAYA: Psychological bullying in Mara Junior Science Colleges (MRSM) is now a key focus as the agency moves closer to its zero-bullying target, says Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.
The Mara chairman said various measures had been implemented to curb bullying, including placing former military personnel as full-time wardens in MRSM facilities.
“We are also working with researchers from Universiti Putra Malaysia to develop a formula for addressing psychological bullying,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.
He said the “You Touch, You Go” policy reflects a no-tolerance approach against bullying, regardless of the offenders’ background and family status.
“I would also like to express my appreciation and congratulations to the management of Mara and MRSM for embracing the firm approach and principles adopted in handling bullying cases.
“You Touch, You Go demonstrates a zero-compromise stance on all forms of bullying.
“There is also no longer any tendency to sweep cases under the carpet.
“These factors have contributed to the sharp decline in bullying cases at MRSM,” he added.
“From the very first day, I was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing Mara, I have made it clear: ‘You touch, you go!’. There is no room for bullies,” said Asyraf Wajdi.
All 58 MRSM will have full-time wardens among former uniformed personnel selected through a strict screening process starting April next year.
He said 18 MRSM will first implement the warden service starting this month before the nationwide rollout.
Asyraf Wajdi said the selection process will also require candidates to undergo special training to understand Mara’s education philosophy.
The decision to employ former uniformed personnel as full-time wardens follows a pilot project carried out in August last year after several bullying cases, which led to the expulsion of the perpetrators.
