SHAH ALAM - Following recent reports of bullying incidents in a Kuala Lumpur boarding school, the Alliance for a Safe Community has urged the Education Ministry (MOE) and schools to improve monitoring and safety measures by installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in key areas and providing confidential channels for students to report bullying incidents without fear of retaliation.
Its chairman, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye also recommended that schools strengthen support systems by appointing more trained counsellors to assist both bullying victims and perpetrators.
He emphasised the importance of such measures, stating that schools should be safe and supportive environments for learning, not places of fear and stress.
"This issue must be addressed transparently and firmly to ensure the safety and well-being of our students.
"All cases of bullying should be reported immediately to school authorities, parents, and the relevant authorities. School administrations must act quickly and fairly against perpetrators without defending any party involved," he said in a statement today.
Lee's statement followed a report by Sinar on Thursday, which revealed disturbing cases of bullying and excessive punishments imposed on junior students at a boarding school in Kuala Lumpur.
Allegations surfaced that secret groups, such as "6 Jahanam," "7 Malaikat Maut," and "6 Azazil," were forcing junior students to endure extreme punishments, including stripping and performing commando-style exercises.
In response, the MOE issued a strong warning to school principals and management against concealing bullying incidents.
Its Minister Fadhlina Sidek stressed that the MOE would not tolerate such practices and would take all complaints—whether from parents, students, or schools—seriously.
The case is currently under investigation.
Lee commended the MOE's firm stance on addressing bullying, stating that such incidents must not be hidden or ignored.
He also called for collaboration between the MOE, the police, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and psychologists to tackle bullying in a comprehensive manner.
"Disciplinary action must be enforced by applying appropriate penalties on perpetrators in line with guidelines set by the Education Ministry," he added.