Bullying in Schools – Are We Doing Enough?

The numbers are alarming. Reported bullying cases in Malaysia jumped from 3,887 in 2022 to 4,994 in 2023, and by October last year, the number had already hit 5,703. Behind each number is a child, a family, and a story of pain that can last a lifetime.

Bullying today isn’t just name-calling or roughhousing. It takes many forms — physical, verbal, and emotional (like spreading rumors or exclusion). Victims often suffer long-term effects such as depression, anxiety, and loss of self-confidence. Some even turn to self-harm or, tragically, suicide.

What makes things worse is the perception that schools treat it as a “small problem.” Parents report cases being downplayed, and victims are left feeling helpless. But bullying leaves scars far beyond the classroom — bullies themselves often struggle later with aggression or depression.

Why Are Bullying Cases in Schools Increasing?

Experts believe the pandemic years disrupted how children learned to manage stress, solve problems, and build relationships. Many lost out on healthy coping skills and came back into school environments more fragile — and sometimes more aggressive.

What Can Parents Do?

If your child is bullied, staying silent isn’t an option. Here are practical steps you can take:

1. Report to the school immediately. Request a meeting involving the bully, their parents, and teachers.

2. If the school takes no action, file a police report within 24 hours. This ensures the case is formally recorded and taken seriously.

3. Activate OSCC (One Stop Crisis Centre) at government hospitals. Doctors will conduct checks and record evidence of the bullying.

4. Stay alert for warning signs. Fear of school, unexplained injuries, asking for extra money, nightmares — all could point to bullying.

5. Support your child emotionally. Teach them to speak up, create a safe space at home, and show them they are not alone.

   
   

A Shared Responsibility

Schools, parents, and the community need to work together. While schools may prefer “peaceful resolutions,” without real consequences bullies may feel emboldened to continue — sometimes pulling others in.

At Agmo Junior, we strongly believe education isn’t only about academics or tech. It’s about building resilient, confident kids who can stand up for themselves and for others. Bullying is everyone’s problem, and it’s time we treated it that way.