I am deeply saddened and troubled by the recent incidents of severe bullying and abuse at the Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM).
To think that young cadets, committed to serving their country, have faced such harm within the very institution entrusted with their care is beyond unacceptable—it is heartbreaking.
My heart goes out to the victims and their families during this difficult time, and I assure them that they have our support.
This is not the first instance where bullying in our institutions has caused real pain and suffering, but it must be the last.
Our students and cadets deserve to pursue their education and training in an environment that upholds respect, discipline, and safety.
The normalization of such acts as ‘jokes’ or ‘pranks’ must be called out and stopped.
Violence, whether masked as tradition or mischief, has no place in our institutions.
To ensure these incidents end, I call upon every university and academy in Malaysia to review their protocols and ensure zero tolerance for any form of bullying, harassment, or abuse.
We urge UPNM and other institutions to implement comprehensive preventive measures and to conduct internal reviews immediately.
Let this be the turning point in building a culture of integrity, responsibility, and empathy within all educational and training facilities.
This is also a call to our broader community, including law enforcement and educational leaders, to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing these heinous acts.
While we wait for a full investigation, we must remember that prevention is key and that accountability is non-negotiable.
To the victims and their families, and to every young person affected by bullying, I am committed to supporting stronger protections and lasting changes to end this toxic culture.
Let us work together to ensure that our educational institutions are places where every individual can learn, grow, and thrive safely.
Thulsi Manogaran
ADUN Buntong
Asst. Publicity Secretary – DAP Perak
Asst. Secretary of Organisation – DAP Wanit
