JOHOR BARU: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia wants the Defence Ministry to seriously look into bullying cases as it has happened several times at its Military Training Academy (ALK) of the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM).

His Majesty insisted that the bullying culture should not be left unchecked because it not only affects the welfare of students but also tarnishes the reputation of higher education institutions in the country.

“I am taking this seriously (ALK UPNM incident) as this has even resulted in a recruit suffering fractured ribs and spine,” he said, adding that this was not the first time a bullying case in ALK UPNM had been reported as it has happened several times and even claimed lives.

Sultan Ibrahim said that in the military, tough training was common in order to build strong mental and spiritual strength, similar to what His Majesty had once experienced while undergoing military training.

“However, this does not mean it is to the extent of bullying or torturing someone to the point of causing physical injury or taking a life. This is an inhumane act.

“I want the Defence Ministry to take this seriously because bullying cases have occurred several times in ALK UPNM,” said His Majesty via his official Facebook page.

Earlier, the King was pleased to accept the visit of Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin at Istana Negara yesterday.

Recently, two bullying cases were reported involving ALK cadets studying at UPNM.

A report was lodged on Nov 8 at around 8.40pm stating that the victim, a first-year student of the university, had been injured on Oct 21.

The 19-year-old victim is reported to have suffered from fractured ribs and spine after he was stepped on by a third-year student.

The victim is still being treated for the injuries.

On Nov 8, a cadet from the same university claimed trial at the Sessions Court here for causing hurt to his junior using a steam iron.

Amirul Iskandar Norhanizan, 22, pleaded not guilty after the charge was read out to him before judge Egusra Ali.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/13/king-wants-defence-ministry-to-look-into-bullying-cases