Is bullying in schools in Malaysia a manifestation of a larger problem?

The problem of bullying in schools and hostels is far more serious and widespread, not only in Malaysia but in several other countries too. 

The King has rightly singled out the need for compassion and love to be cultivated among our children in schools to help address this problem. It has already taken many young lives and left many more children psychologically scarred. Many families are affected. 

As wisely stated by the King, if this problem is not collectively addressed with urgency, we may risk creating a whole new generation of bullies and victims. 

Experts have provided some useful information and advice on this issue. Research shows bullying is characterised by repeated intentional aggressive behaviour involving an imbalance of power. As such, cases of bullying should not be treated as isolated incidents – which, unfortunately, we in Malaysia often tend to do.

Studies indicate that bullying typically involves intentional harm, repeated incidents and power imbalances.  

Bullies typically target those they perceive as different or vulnerable, often exploiting physical, social or psychological advantages.

If we look at the broader social fabric of our society, we can see manifestations of bullying present everywhere. 

We see how urban settlers and rural communities are sometimes given a raw deal when they are displaced or evicted in the name of development – behind which is the hidden hand of profits and personal gain.

In politics too, we often find ourselves being bullied into a corner. A classic case was the saga over flying the Malaysian flag, where compassion, advice and a helping hand were sadly lacking. Instead, we had politicians like Akmal Saleh, who seemed intent on advancing his own political mileage. 

In Malaysia, certain quarters among the majority, in asserting their rights, have sometimes – intentionally or unintentionally – ‘bullied’ the minorities into silent submission. Certain politicians have even labelled the minorities with terms like ‘pendatang’ (immigrants). Although many may not perceive it as such, is this not bullying?

Sociologists, psychologists, economists and political scientists in the country would be able to provide a more comprehensive list of instances of how our socio-political and economic-related policies, preferences and exploitation may have reinforced a culture of bullying across the country. 

If we are to effectively eliminate bullying from our schools and to stop unnecessary deaths like that of Zara Qairina’s, we need to take a hard look at the incidents of bullying in the adult world first. 

Children, after all, often mimic what adults do.