BELIAWANIS MCA has lauded the recent decision to expel seven Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) students for their involvement in a bullying case that surfaced on social media, saying the expulsion serves as a stark reminder that such behaviour is unacceptable.
Its national chairperson Ivone Low Yi Wen noted that bullying is a form of aggression that has no place in any educational environment and it is crucial that all quarters take a firm stance against it.
“These students, given their age and level of education, should have known better. Expelling (them) is a necessary and appropriate response. It sends a clear message that bullying will not be tolerated, regardless of the background or status of the individuals involved,” she stressed.
“The actions of the students in question were not only cruel but also, by recording and sharing their behaviour, they seemed to view bullying as entertainment.
“This culture of intimidation and humiliation cannot be allowed to go on, and strong action must be taken for all incidents, including any future occurrences.”
Low further pointed out that the case highlights the importance of tackling bullying at its roots, adding that it is essential to create avenues where students can report bullying safely and directly, without fear of reprisal or dismissal.
“Was the Mara Junior College aware of this incident prior to the video going viral? Had the victim reported this? If so, was it done in confidence? Platforms should be established for students to voice concerns if they feel that their complaints are not adequately addressed by campus authorities,” she added.
“This proactive approach could prevent future incidents and allow students to feel supported and heard.”
Low went on to commend Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki who made it clear that he would not compromise on this matter, stating that even the children of influential individuals would face consequences if involved in bullying.
“His principle of ‘#YouTouchYouGo’ for bullies shows his commitment to ensuring a zero-tolerance policy against such behaviour. As Malaysians, we should take his principle to heart, and make sure that this expulsion serves as a cautionary tale to students nationwide,” she continued.
“The consequences of bullying must be severe to deter future incidents and promote a culture of respect. A clear deterrent encourages others to think twice before engaging in such behaviour.”
She said preventing bullying also requires proactive measures such as installing surveillance, training staff, and educating students on empathy and respect, ensuring both prevention and punishment work together to create a safe environment.
“This incident should serve as a clear warning that bullying will not be tolerated, and those who engage in such behaviour will face serious consequences,” she asserted.
“It is crucial that we uphold the values of respect and kindness in our educational institutions, while those in positions of authority ensure that these values are protected, maintaining schools as places of learning, not aggression.”
On Monday (April 7), 1-minute 31-second video clip that went viral on Facebook showed a group of male students pinning down the head and body of another student, who was lying face-down on a bed. The victim was also whipped with a belt on his back.
It was initially unclear whether the act was meant as a prank or constituted actual bullying, prompting the school to launch an investigation.
The following day, Asyraf in a Facebook said that two of the students in a viral video were found to have been involved in physical bullying, while the other five were accomplices. – April 9, 2025
