KUALA LUMPUR: Bullying must not be regarded as a tradition, form of discipline or symbol of leadership, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) said a zero figure did not necessarily mean bullying was absent, as victims might be too afraid to report it.
“Although the government's goal today is to eradicate bullying completely, the zero figure must genuinely mean there is no bullying, rather than there being victims who are afraid to speak up and do not report it.
“That is why we established the Anti-Bullying Tribunal. Our approach is not merely about punishment, but more importantly, we want to rehabilitate victims, guide perpetrators and ensure every complaint is dealt with quickly and effectively,” she said.
Azalina said this in her speech at the 2026 Anti-Bullying Act Literacy Programme and the Role of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal session at the Royal Military College on Wednesday (Sept 23).
She urged students not to regard bullying as part of the process of becoming stronger.
“Bullying is not a tradition. Bullying is not discipline and, far from it, bullying is not a symbol of leadership.
“If you see a friend being bullied, do not stay silent, and if you know someone is suffering, do not turn away.
“If you yourself become a victim, do not be afraid to speak up and make a complaint,” she said.
Azalina said tackling bullying was a shared responsibility, with parents also having a role under the Anti-Bullying Act 2026, which came into force on March 1.
She said the Act was not limited to schoolchildren, but also placed responsibilities on parents in addressing bullying among those aged 18 and below.
