KUALA LUMPUR: There must be a thorough review of the educational system at military-linked institutions to strengthen the response to bullying cases.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said this following recent concerns over incidents at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM).
He said a comprehensive approach was necessary to prevent and address bullying, particularly within unique environments such as UPNM, where both military and civilian administration oversee students.
"We must re-evaluate the entire ecosystem within these institutions to find the best ways to prevent such incidents.
"This review is essential, especially considering that some incidents may have gone unreported in the past.
"Or perhaps introduce a system for those wanting to enter (and pursue studies), similar to the West Point Military Academy (United States).
"Military trainees can focus on academics within that system. We need to revisit the education system itself. We could establish an academy directly under the military."
He said this when met after the launching ceremony for the book titled Tun Abdul Razak – Imagining Malaysia's Future Through His Lenses here today.
Zambry said the challenges stemmed from the military-civilian structure at UPNM, where approximately 17 per cent of students undergo military training to become officers in the armed forces, making monitoring and intervention more complex.
"There are certain constraints to civilian oversight because these students fall under the supervision of the military during training.
"While it creates challenges in addressing incidents, it doesn't diminish our responsibility to keep students safe.
"We will not take a hands-off approach simply because some aspects fall outside our direct control," he said.
In response to bullying incidents, Zambry added that he had discussed the matter with Defence Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin.
He said it was agreed that both ministries needed to work together to prevent bullying and strengthen safeguards at military academies.
"While the Higher Education Ministry doesn't have full control over these institutions' military aspects, collaboration with the Defence Ministry is crucial.
"We welcome any suggestions and joint initiatives that can help prevent such incidents in the future," he added.
Previously, it was reported that a first-year UPNM student suffered fractures to his ribs and back, allegedly after being stomped on by senior students.
The incident happened a day before another UPNM student was also injured after a senior pressed a steam iron on him on Oct 21.
Zambry said that he had recently convened a meeting with vice-chancellors from universities nationwide to stress the importance of a proactive stance on bullying.
"I have instructed all vice-chancellors to monitor bullying cases closely and to act immediately if such incidents occur.
"We are implementing measures to detect and address these issues before they escalate."