The government is considering proposals to expand the scope of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal Bill beyond those under 18.
According to law and institutional reform minister Azalina Othman Said, the matter was raised during feedback at anti-bullying town hall sessions and through the Institutional Reform Map (PetaRI) portal.
Azalina said there were calls for the bill to cover a wider age group, given that bullying occurs not only in schools but also in higher education institutions, as well as police and military colleges.
“If it is opened to all age groups, it would not only involve the education ministry, but also the higher education ministry, public and private educational institutions, and even military and police colleges, as elements of bullying also occur there.
“So far, there has been significant feedback calling for a more open approach, but the matter is still under review,” Bernama quoted her as saying after the Johor state-level anti-bullying town hall session at Bangunan Sultan Ismail today.
Azalina, who is also the Pengerang MP, said the bill, currently being drafted, aims to reduce the number of bullying cases in the country.
Citing the Sexual Harassment Tribunal as an example, she said the tribunal mechanism allows for faster resolution of complaints, thereby raising public awareness.
“With the establishment of this tribunal, perpetrators will think twice before acting, as they will be aware of its expedited process. It is anticipated that the number of cases will consequently decrease,” she said.
She also encouraged those who cannot attend the town hall sessions to provide feedback online through the PetaRI portal, which has a section for comments and suggestions on the bill.
Azalina previously said the government expects to table the bill in Parliament in October, after completing stakeholder engagements by September and presenting the final proposal to the Cabinet.
