Malaysia’s New Anti-Bullying Tribunal Can Fine Parents of Convicted Minors

A new anti-bullying law came into force in Malaysia this week, allowing a tribunal to convict minors of bullying and hold their parents liable for additional court procedures and fines. The tribunal, made up of more than 50 specialists, will handle cases too complex for schools. Government figures show thousands of Malaysian students were affected by bullying last year.

Malaysia has one of the highest rates of bullying in the world. A 2023 study by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement found Malaysia had one of the highest rates among eighth-grade students globally. An Ipsos poll last year found 260 of 400 Malaysian respondents, or 65 per cent, said they experienced bullying at school.

In one high-profile case, a 13-year-old girl died last year after falling from the third floor of her hostel at a religious boarding school in Sabah province. Her death was attributed to bullying and sexual harassment. Five teenage students appeared in court on bullying charges in connection with the incident.

Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim of the Parent Action Group for Education in Malaysia said the law places children's well-being at the centre and recognises that bullying has serious emotional, psychological and educational consequences. She added that legal liability should be approached carefully because not all parents have control over their children's actions, particularly in complex social and digital environments.

Unionist Fouzi Singon said the tribunal could act as a preventative factor because perpetrators know their actions can be punished more severely.

Earlier this month Malaysia banned children under the age of 16 from having social media accounts. The government said the measures aim to protect children from harmful content, cyberbullying and platform features designed to encourage excessive use.