BEAUFORT: Anti-Bullying law should be enacted without delay to provide clear guidelines, protect victims and whistle-blowers and ensure stern action against perpetrators, said Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ruslan Muharam.
He said proactive measures were vital to prevent a repeat of the recent tragedy involving the late Zara Qairina Mahathir, which shocked the nation.
“The incident has left a deep impact on society and raised concerns over how far the Government and schools can guarantee children’s safety from bullying.
“I propose that an Anti-Bullying law be drafted to make it stricter, more comprehensive and enforced immediately.
“We need firm legislation, not just guidelines or advice, with strict punishments, simple reporting procedures and comprehensive protection for students,” he said.
Ruslan was speaking at a tahlil and prayer ceremony for Zara at the Beaufort District Mosque on Thursday, attended by over 500 people, including local residents and government agency representatives.
Similar events were held simultaneously at mosques and suraus across Sabah as a show of solidarity.
The Lumadan Assemblyman also suggested that all schools require students to sign an “Aku Janji” (Letter of Undertaking) to neither bully nor be involved in bullying and to report such acts to teachers.
“This effort may help deter those with the intention to bully, as they would be bound by a strict pledge and at the same time restore parents’ confidence in their children’s safety at school,” he said.
