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COMPLAINANTS or witnesses in bullying cases will soon be able to file reports anonymously under the Ministry of Education (MOE) revamped reporting system, including the Aduan Buli portal, to protect their identities.

Education DG Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said the reform is part of immediate measures to strengthen safety in educational institutions, alongside a comprehensive safety audit in all schools, boarding schools and daily hostels.

He said the audit will focus on compliance with safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) and review existing guidelines to ensure they remain relevant.

“The audit report will be presented to the top management of MOE within three months,” he said in a statement on Aug 11.

MOE will also establish the Institutional Safety Reform Committee, comprising academics, NGOs, subject matter experts, police and representatives from the Parents, Community and Private Sector Involvement (PIBKS) initiative, to reinforce school safety.

According to Mohd Azam, there will be no compromise on bullying offences, with strict action including suspension or expulsion.

For suspended students, MOE will introduce the Bangkit Bermaruah intervention programme, focusing on community service and character development.

“School administrators, teachers and officers at district and state education offices who fail to manage bullying complaints in accordance with existing guidelines will face action,” he said.

He added that psychosocial support will be strengthened for students, teachers and the wider school community, with guidance and counselling teachers playing a key role in prevention and intervention. — TMR

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by AUFA MARDHIAH 

INDIVIDUALS convicted of harassment, insults or acts of bullying, including online, now face imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine, or both, under the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025 (Act A1750).

In a statement on Aug 11, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said (picture) stated that the law, introduced by the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department (BHEUU), received royal assent on Feb 25 and was gazetted on March 7.  

“The amendments include new Sections 507B to 507G, which also cover offences such as identity misuse and situations where victims attempt suicide or die due to provocation,” said Azalina, noting that it will take effect on a date to be announced by the minister through the gazette.

She said the public can obtain free information from BHEUU or the Legal Aid Department to better understand the changes. She also suggests for the public to study and comply with the law.

Azalina also urged ministries, agencies, organisations and institutions to keep their staff updated on legal developments and ensure internal policies are aligned with the amendments.

“It must be remembered that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. A clear understanding of rights and responsibilities is the first step towards building a safe, ethical and humane society,” she said.

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