PETALING JAYA – Following recent significant amendments to the Penal Code, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said has called upon all ministries, government agencies, organisations, and educational institutions across Malaysia to immediately review and update their internal procedures. These changes mark a crucial shift in how bullying is addressed, elevating it from a disciplinary issue to a serious criminal offence.

The amendments, which have been widely welcomed, aim to provide stronger legal recourse for victims of bullying and to deter perpetrators. Previously, bullying often fell under internal disciplinary codes, which could be inconsistent and lacked the severity of legal consequences. The revised Penal Code now explicitly criminalises various forms of bullying, including cyberbullying, with potentially significant penalties.

Why the Amendments Matter

The impetus behind these changes stems from a growing concern over the prevalence and impact of bullying, particularly among young people. Reports of bullying incidents, both physical and online, have been steadily increasing, leading to widespread calls for stronger legal protections. These revisions aim to:

• Provide Victims with Legal Redress: Victims now have access to legal avenues to seek justice and hold bullies accountable.
• Deter Bullying Behaviour: The threat of criminal prosecution is expected to discourage potential bullies.
• Harmonise Internal Policies: The amendments create a consistent legal framework that should guide internal policies across various institutions.
• Address Cyberbullying: Recognising the growing problem of online harassment, the Penal Code now specifically addresses cyberbullying, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions in the digital space.

What Institutions Need to Do

Minister Azalina stressed that immediate action is required from all relevant entities. Specifically, institutions are urged to:

• Review Existing Policies: Carefully examine current internal policies and procedures related to bullying to ensure they align with the new Penal Code.
• Update Procedures: Revise procedures for reporting, investigating, and addressing bullying incidents, incorporating the legal framework provided by the amendments.
• Training and Awareness: Provide training to employees, staff, and students on the new Penal Code amendments and their implications. Raise awareness about bullying prevention and intervention strategies.
• Reporting Mechanisms: Ensure clear and accessible reporting mechanisms are in place for victims to report bullying incidents without fear of retaliation.

A Proactive Approach

The government’s commitment to addressing bullying is a positive step towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for all Malaysians. However, the amendments are just one piece of the puzzle. A proactive approach that combines legal measures with education, awareness campaigns, and a culture of respect is essential to effectively combat bullying.

The call to action from Minister Azalina serves as a reminder that tackling bullying requires a collective effort, with all stakeholders playing a vital role in creating a society where everyone feels safe and valued.