Kuala lumpur: The government is currently coordinating the enforcement of Sections 507B to 507G of the Penal Code to ensure that all parties understand that bullying is a crime. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the matter was among the key issues discussed during today's Cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in light of recent bullying incidents, including the tragic death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister made it clear that the government will not tolerate bullying in any form or allow such cases to continue without accountability. Fahmi stated that Cabinet ministers have begun aligning actions across ministries, particularly those managing educational institutions and student dormitories, to ensure the proper implementation of the newly amended provisions, which came into force in July.
Fahmi emphasized the need for every ministry to fully understand the amendments, stating that bullying is clearly defined and legally recognized as a criminal act. He mentioned that further enforcement steps will follow, sharing these remarks with reporters after attending the 20th edition of the Majlis Amanat Perdana Perkhidmatan Awam (MAPPA XX) gathering, which brought together over 30,000 civil servants both in person and virtually.
The Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025 and the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Act 2025, aimed at more comprehensively addressing all forms of bullying, including cyberbullying, were passed in the Dewan Rakyat on December 10 and in Dewan Negara on December 16, last year. Fahmi also disclosed that the Prime Minister had raised concerns over the conduct of certain individuals and public figures, describing their behavior as 'disrespectful' and confirmed that authorities would take appropriate action.
Meanwhile, during MAPPA XX, Anwar reiterated the important role of civil servants in safeguarding peace, public order, and national progress. Fahmi relayed the Prime Minister's messages, emphasizing the link between current progress and past reforms, including the implementation of the Public Service Remuneration System.
Fahmi welcomed Anwar's announcements related to the public service, expressing a sense of relief among many and hinting at more developments to come. He noted that, as the Prime Minister mentioned, more major announcements for civil servants are expected, Insya-Allah, during the tabling of Budget 2026 on October 10.