Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged the Education Ministry to take a firmer role in preventing school bullying, saying education should shape students’ conduct as well as their academic performance, Bernama reported.
At the Oct. 31 launch of the Kelantan Entrepreneur Revival Scheme, Anwar cited cases of suicide, abuse and bullying involving children to argue for earlier attention to character and values. He asked teachers and educators to help protect students.
He framed academic performance as one aim among several, saying schools should also encourage students to act respectfully and take responsibility. He linked bullying and humiliation at school to a wider weakness in the system’s teaching of values and conduct.
He also emphasized respect for parents, teachers and peers. On broader social concerns, Anwar said crime and drug abuse require a comprehensive response to help young people grow up in a healthy environment.
