MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has proposed that the Education Ministry appoint full-time wardens from among retired military personnel to help tackle bullying in schools.
He said the suggestion comes amid growing concern over the increasing number of bullying incidents reported across the country, adding that army veterans could bring stronger discipline while also creating meaningful employment opportunities after their service.
In a Facebook post, Asyraf revealed that MARA is ready to share with the ministry the findings of a Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) study on a nine-month pilot project involving full-time external wardens recruited from army veterans at Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM).
According to the study, the pilot programme recorded zero bullying cases throughout the implementation period. It also found improvements in student discipline, more consistent supervision, quicker responses to student welfare and safety issues, and a safer, cleaner and more conducive hostel environment.
The initiative also benefited teachers, who were relieved of hostel warden duties and were able to focus more on teaching. At the same time, students showed better academic performance and responded positively to the veteran wardens during field surveys and campus visits.
Asyraf said the combination of military discipline and parental values allows the veterans to serve not only as wardens but also as mentors and role models for students.
Encouraged by the results, MARA expanded the programme to 10 additional MRSM campuses last month as the first phase of implementation. The initiative is expected to be introduced at all 58 MRSM nationwide beginning in January next year.
He added that UPM has also been tasked with developing a specialised training module for future wardens, focusing not only on discipline and security but also on empathy, human values and parental care to better support students.
Asyraf noted that many military personnel retire between the ages of 38 and 45 while still in their productive years, making them well-suited to contribute to the education sector. He also said the programme could help improve the welfare of veterans, especially those who do not qualify for a monthly pension after completing their service.
