ePicByteHub

PETALING JAYA: A coalition of concerned civil society groups, paediatric specialists, and child rights advocates are calling for a significant change in how Malaysia addresses the pressing issue of school bullying. Instead of relying solely on punitive measures, they are urging the government to prioritize and implement evidence-based prevention strategies that tackle the root causes of bullying and create safer, more supportive learning environments for all students.

The current approach, often focused on disciplinary actions against bullies, is seen as reactive and ultimately ineffective in curbing the long-term problem. While punishment may deter immediate incidents, it fails to address the underlying factors contributing to bullying behaviour, such as social dynamics, lack of empathy, and inadequate emotional support. Experts argue that a proactive, preventative approach is crucial for fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within schools.

“We need to move away from the ‘punish and forget’ mentality,” stated Dr. Aisha Rahman, a leading paediatric psychologist and spokesperson for the coalition. “Bullying isn't just about a single act; it’s often a symptom of deeper issues. We need to understand why children bully and provide them with the support and skills they need to develop healthy relationships and resolve conflicts constructively.”

Evidence-Based Strategies: A Path Forward

The coalition proposes a multi-faceted approach grounded in research and proven effective interventions. Key strategies include:

• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs: Integrating SEL into the curriculum to teach children empathy, self-awareness, social skills, and responsible decision-making.
• Bystander Intervention Training: Empowering students to safely intervene when they witness bullying and to report incidents to trusted adults.
• Parental Involvement: Providing resources and workshops for parents to understand bullying dynamics and support their children’s emotional well-being.
• Teacher Training: Equipping educators with the skills to identify, prevent, and respond effectively to bullying situations.
• School-Wide Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports (SWPBS): Creating a positive school climate that promotes prosocial behaviour and reduces opportunities for bullying.

“These strategies are not just feel-good initiatives,” emphasized Mr. Ravi Kumar, a child rights advocate. “They are backed by rigorous research demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing bullying rates and improving school climate. Investing in prevention is an investment in the well-being of our children and the future of our nation.”

The coalition has submitted a detailed proposal to the Ministry of Education outlining their recommendations and offering to collaborate on the development and implementation of a national anti-bullying strategy. They believe that a collaborative effort involving government agencies, schools, parents, and community organizations is essential to create a truly bullying-free learning environment for all Malaysian students.

The call to action comes at a time when concerns about school bullying remain high, with reports of cyberbullying and physical violence continuing to surface. By shifting the focus to prevention, Malaysia can create a safer and more supportive environment where all students can thrive.