Sibu: Synergy between parents, teachers, students, and education authorities needs to be strengthened to curb the bullying phenomenon in schools, which is now considered a national crisis and threatens the future of the younger generation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh emphasized that all parties should collaborate to create a learning environment free from oppression and violence, including making schools an ‘anti-bullying zone’. He highlighted the disturbing rise in bullying incidents, which are not only increasing in numbers but also intensifying in severity, encompassing physical violence, sexual assault, cyberbullying, and tragic cases leading to death.

Speaking at the launch of the ‘Program Bersama Menentang Buli 2025’ (Together Against Bullying 2025 Programme) at Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS), Wong called for the implementation of firm policies, value-added educational programmes, and effective psychosocial support. These measures aim to protect victims and guide perpetrators towards positive change.

The programme, a joint initiative by the National Consumer Action Council (MTPN), the United Sibu Women’s Empowerment Organisation (PPWBS), and UTS, gathered students from six secondary schools and three higher education institutions in the city. Participants engaged in a poster drawing competition under the theme ‘Bersatu Menentang Buli’ (United Against Bullying).

Wong expressed growing concerns about the escalation of bullying culture, noting its rampant spread in cyberspace due to the uncontrolled rise in social media use. He warned that while humiliation, social isolation, and cyberbullying may not leave physical scars, their impact on the victim’s mental health is profound and can persist into adulthood.