The National Consumer Action Council (NCAC) has stepped up its fight against student and youth bullying, labeling the growing problem a critical national safety issue.
Speaking at a “Unity in Fight Against Bullying” dialogue hosted by the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) Campus in Sibu, NCAC national vice-president Kevin Lo emphasized that while consumer protection remains the Council’s core mission, addressing misbehaviour and ill-discipline—now escalating into violent crimes—has become a top priority. The NCAC plans to use its existing ground teams to raise awareness and run educational programs in schools, colleges, universities, and public spaces.
UTS vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Hamid highlighted that bullying is widespread, affecting not only schools but also workplaces, colleges, and universities, calling for stricter anti-bullying laws.
The NCAC’s initiative echoes recent calls from Sarawak leaders to reinstate stricter disciplinary measures in secondary schools. Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam, State Deputy Minister for Community Wellbeing and Family Development, urged a return to the strict punishment system of the late 1970s–1990s, including public caning administered by principals and teachers for violent students, arguing that current measures fail to deter criminal behaviour. He recalled his own experience where a school caning was reinforced at home, emphasizing the seriousness of misbehaviour.
Progressive Democratic Party senior vice-president Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh also urged an immediate review of school disciplinary methods, stating that firm control and stern punishment are necessary to protect students focused on their studies.
Former Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu deputy information chief Datuk Peter Minos echoed the sentiment, advocating for a “no-compromise” approach. He suggested reinstating principals’ authority to impose public caning, suspensions, and expulsions for students with a history of bullying and violence.
The combined push from the NCAC and political leaders reflects a growing demand for stricter measures to ensure safe learning environments for all students.
