Dig deep, stop bullying
The Zara Qairina Mahathir bullying case marks the first use of Malaysia's newly introduced anti-bullying law, Section 507D of the Penal Code, amended in July 2024. While Malaysia lacks a comprehensive anti-bullying act, existing laws address aspects like criminal intimidation, wrongful confinement, assault, and cyberbullying under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. The government is considering a dedicated anti-bullying act. This case highlights the seriousness of bullying in Malaysia, particularly in schools, and emphasizes the need for both punitive measures and restorative justice.
