Kota Kinabalu: The State Education Department and schools must pay more attention to cases of bullying that may occur in secondary schools in the state.
“They must ensure that disciplinary action is taken against students who are guilty and do not compromise with bullying or violence especially involving students,” said Assistant Minister of Youth and State Sports, Datuk Fairuz Renddan.
He said the State Government is viewing seriously the murder of a male student at a vocational college in Lahad Datu on Friday.
“This incident took place in a college dormitory and reportedly involved many dormitory residents.
“We ask the police and the Ministry of Higher Education to conduct a detailed investigation so that appropriate action can be taken against those involved.
“Things like this can be avoided if students and hostel residents have discipline and a high spirit of tolerance.
“Any disagreements that occur among hostel residents should be immediately reported to the hostel warden so that unwanted incidents like these do not happen,” he said.
Mohammad Nazmie Aizzat Muhd Narul Azwan, 17, was found unconscious by the hostel warden at 6.50am.
Lahad Datu District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Dr Rohan Shah Ahmad said they received the report from the college’s Director.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the incident took place in the college’s male dormitory where the victim was found lifeless on the floor.
Dr Rohan said further examination found signs of injuries and bruises on several parts of the victim’s body.
Meanwhile, Segama Community Development Leader Datuk Mizma Appehdullah called on parents, teachers and society to do their part against bullying.
“It is important for us to instil good values among children so that they do not get caught up in bullying.
“Communication is also important. We need to understand the children’s feelings, take care of their feelings and activities so that they do not become victims of bullying or bullies,” said Mizma, after officiating the SK Tawaiyari Parents Teacher Association annual meeting.
Mizma suggested programmes or talks related to bullying with emphasis on the negative effects which not only cause physical injury but mental trauma.
Mizma also hoped installation of closed circuit cameras (CCTVs) in hostels is considered.
She said CCTV may not only prevent bullying but also prevent other criminal activities such as theft.
“Bullying should not be normalised and we all need to play a role and take appropriate measures to prevent bullying,” she added, after visiting the student’s family.
She also hoped the police’s investigation would reveal the real motive behind this incident.
