Kuala Lampur:Taylor's University Malaysia lecturer Dr. Sharala Subramaniam emphasizes the need to address school bullying by shifting the focus from blame to improving the education ecosystem, especially after 5,681 cases were recorded in the first eight months of this year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Subramaniam insists that bullying should not be viewed merely as a school issue. It is part of a broader ecosystem involving students, families, schools, peers, society, and the digital world. She argues for a culture of responsibility over blame, highlighting the need for collective action to prevent bullying.

Dr. Subramaniam made these remarks on Bernama TV's 'Malaysia Petang Ini,' discussing the topic 'Buli Di Sekolah: Jangan Lindungi, Jangan Sembunyi.' She stressed the importance of schools and parents not concealing bullying cases to protect reputations, suggesting that acknowledging issues and taking action can positively impact an institution's standing.

She advocates for openness, transparency, fairness, and swift action in addressing bullying, asserting that schools that report and investigate cases demonstrate a functioning system. Dr. Subramaniam also emphasized educating students to report bullying without fear, promoting a culture where speaking up is seen as an act of courage and responsibility.

Addressing the challenges of cyberbullying on platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and online gaming, she stressed the need for digital empathy among the younger generation. Despite technological advances, maintaining core values such as mutual respect, empathy, and responsibility remains crucial.