Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has emphasized its unwavering stance on the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) concerning bullying and abuse within the military ranks. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari stated that the ministry is committed to pursuing relentless action both at the ministry level and in accordance with legal provisions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Adly Zahari highlighted that Mindef will not tolerate any Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel who engage in bullying activities. He underscored the importance of SOPs in addressing such cases, acknowledging that while these incidents might be isolated, decisive action will still be taken. “As stated by the Army Chief, there have indeed been some cases reported but we have a clear SOP with two approaches – action at the ministry level and internal ATM measures,” Zahari remarked during the MADANI Aidilfitri celebration at the Chinese Chamber of Commerce hall.
Adly further clarified that Mindef does not excuse any form of bullying, even though military training is conducted via rigorous modules. He detailed that Mindef employs internal mechanisms, including a special committee, to distinguish between legitimate disciplinary training and bullying behavior. Decisions regarding bullying cases have been made, and warnings have been issued, indicating that perpetrators will face legal consequences.
Additional measures have been introduced to combat bullying, such as increasing the number of wardens at the Royal Military College, separating junior and senior students, and installing closed-circuit cameras at strategic points. ‘Moreover, we provide psychological rehabilitation spaces, advisory services, and education to raise awareness among students and families,’ Adly added.
The situation gained attention after it was revealed on Monday that 41 army officers and personnel were dismissed due to bullying and abuse cases against lower-ranked personnel since 2019. Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan reportedly mentioned that the dismissed group included 12 officers and 29 other personnel.
In previous media reports, it was noted that Muhammad Muqriz, a 21-year-old member of the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (20 RAMD) at Sri Miri Camp, Sarawak, died on March 24 due to blunt force trauma to the chest.