THERE is currently no need to draft new legislation to address bullying, as existing provisions under Malaysia’s Penal Code are sufficient, according to Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Speaking after an event with the Sarawak Federation of Women’s Associations (PPWS) in Kuching, Nancy said that although bullying is a growing concern, offenders can already be prosecuted under existing laws.
"The Penal Code clearly states that bullying is a criminal offence and provides for penalties, including fines of up to RM3,000. This proves that our current legal mechanisms are still relevant and enforceable," she said.
Nancy was responding to calls from various quarters, including the Anti-Bullying Act Movement (GAB), which has urged the government to introduce a specific anti-bullying law. GAB’s chairperson, Wan Azliana Wan Adnan, recently claimed that bullying is not clearly defined under current statutes and that existing laws such as the Penal Code and the Child Act 2001 fall short in protecting victims.
However, Nancy believes the focus should be on improving enforcement and implementation rather than rushing into new legal frameworks.
“There is no immediate need to draft a new law. What’s important is strict enforcement of the existing ones. If necessary, we can consider improvements to the current legal provisions in light of new developments,” she added.
Nancy clarified that her ministry does not have direct authority to draft legislation, which falls under the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department (BHEUU). However, the ministry can propose reforms for cabinet discussion.
She also emphasised that addressing bullying requires a whole-of-society approach.
“All parties, including parents, educational institutions and the wider community, must play a proactive role in preventing bullying from becoming more widespread,” she said. - August 16, 2025
