KOTA KINABALU: Parents must play a greater role in preventing bullying instead of leaving the responsibility solely to schools or the government, said Likas Assemblyman Tham Yun Fook.
Tham, in welcoming the implementation of the Anti-Bullying Act 2026, said the new legislation, which introduces the concept of shared responsibility involving parents and families for bullying offences committed by their children, is a bold and timely reform, as bullying cases continue to rise nationwide, with some resulting in serious injuries and even loss of life.
“Bullying is no longer merely a school disciplinary issue.
“It has become a social problem that requires a comprehensive response from all sectors of society.
“I firmly believe that character building and moral education begin at home.
“Therefore, parents cannot shift the responsibility entirely to schools or the government when their children are involved in bullying.
“Values such as respect, compassion, discipline and empathy must be nurtured from an early age within the family environment,” he said in a statement on Friday.
Tham said the provision placing certain responsibilities on families is also expected to encourage parents to pay closer attention to their children’s behaviour, including their activities at school, in hostels, and on social media.
At the same time, he hoped the Act would be implemented fairly and prudently, with due consideration given to the circumstances of each case so that its primary objectives of prevention, education and rehabilitation could be effectively achieved.
He also expressed support for the establishment of an Anti-Bullying Tribunal as a dedicated mechanism to handle complaints and bullying cases more efficiently, professionally and effectively.
“The future of our nation depends on a generation that is ethical, disciplined and respectful of others,” he said.
He called on parents, teachers, students, civil society organisations and government agencies to work together to eradicate the culture of bullying at its roots.
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