Kuala lumpur: The proposed paper on the Anti-Bullying Tribunal is scheduled to be presented at the Cabinet meeting tomorrow, as part of the government's initiative to address bullying cases in schools, she stated that following the Cabinet's agreement on the policy framework, the subsequent step would involve tabling the Anti-Bullying Bill, which is nearing completion.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina emphasized the importance of presenting the general policies through town hall sessions conducted with public participation, aided by several ministries to evaluate feedback and responses. Once the Cabinet approves the policy, further engagement with Parliament members will take place to continue discussions and gather their input as an indirect form of public engagement.
Azalina highlighted that the Bill aims to establish a tribunal with quasi-judicial powers to handle bullying cases through a civil process for faster and more efficient resolution. She clarified that the tribunal's role is to function independently and will not interfere with existing disciplinary mechanisms in various institutions. The tribunal will address civil cases, whereas bullying incidents involving criminal elements will remain under police and criminal court jurisdiction.
Citing a past example, Azalina noted that a bullying-related civil case took nearly nine years to resolve through the courts, whereas the tribunal system could settle similar matters within 60 to 90 days, akin to the sexual harassment tribunal under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. She asserted that the tribunal's approach benefits both victims and perpetrators by allowing for rehabilitation efforts, offering a second chance.
Azalina mentioned that Malaysia has strengthened its anti-bullying laws by amending the Penal Code and enacting the Online Safety Act 2025. However, she acknowledged that laws alone are insufficient, prompting the Legal Affairs Division to review the Anti-Bullying Bill, including establishing a quasi-judicial tribunal for complaints involving vulnerable groups under 18.
She emphasized that the approach is not just about punishment but also education and rehabilitation, aligning with the Child Act 2001, which protects children's confidentiality and legal aid rights without denying accountability for offenses. Azalina urged for a whole-of-government approach and community cooperation to effectively address bullying and encouraged Malaysians to participate in the public survey on the proposed Anti-Bullying Bill 2025 on the PetaRI portal to share their views and ideas for a comprehensive solution.