By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
Photo Illustration
The tragic death of Form One student, the late Zara Qairina Mahathir, has opened the nation’s eyes to the fact that bullying in schools is no longer a minor misconduct that can be brushed aside with mere disciplinary warnings.
She was found unconscious at her school dormitory before passing away, and police investigations are now focusing on elements of bullying, neglect and sexual harassment. To date, five teenagers have been charged in court with bullying.
The question is, how much longer will bullying be taken lightly? Schools, which are supposed to be safe havens for learning, are increasingly becoming unsafe spaces for students.
What is even more disappointing are allegations that such incidents were “swept under the rug” in order to protect the reputation of the institution.
The reality is stark, a young life has been lost. Is that not enough to jolt every conscience?
The Ministry of Education cannot continue repeating promises of “investigations” and “action will be taken.”
The public is demanding firmness. Perpetrators found guilty must be suspended or expelled, and if necessary, prosecuted in court.
School administrations, too, must be held accountable for failing to protect the safety of students under their care.
It is time for concrete measures to be put in place: the installation of CCTV cameras in dormitories and corridors, the establishment of a Special Anti-Bullying Task Force across agencies, the integration of mandatory empathy and moral education modules, as well as full protection for victims and witnesses, including counselling and a safe reporting system free from retaliation.
Zara’s tragedy must mark a turning point for our education system. Her name should not only be remembered for the circumstances of her death, but as a symbol of change that ends the culture of bullying in schools.
Bullying is a crime — and every crime must be punished.
