MAF To Implement Long-term Measures To Address Bullying In Military Training Academy

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) will implement five long-term measures to address bullying among cadet officers at the Military Training Academy.

In a statement today, MAF headquarters announced that these measures involve strict actions against perpetrators under the Armed Forces Act 1972, with all decisions on misconduct brought before the Commandant's Board to be coordinated and mutually agreed upon with the Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), in line with the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971.

Furthermore, MAF will strengthen efforts to foster positive values among cadet officers, including awareness campaigns on the dangers of bullying, self-esteem enhancement, and instilling principles of equality and mutual respect.

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"ATM and UPNM will ensure that the welfare and safety of students remain a priority, which includes providing channels for students to report any harassment or threats, as well as offering psychological support to victims of bullying.

"Collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education and other educational bodies will be reinforced to ensure that high ethical standards continue to be upheld within the military training system at the institution," read the statement. 

The statement announced that as part of ongoing monitoring efforts, the MAF will fill vacant positions at the Military Training Academy, particularly for trainers, and allocate funds for installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on all floors of the cadet officer dormitory blocks.

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MAF emphasised its serious stance on the bullying cases and acknowledged the concern expressed by the King, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim during the 14th UPNM convocation ceremony yesterday.

“His Majesty’s decree clearly emphasises that such bullying cases must cease and not be allowed to persist, as they not only endanger student welfare but also tarnish the reputation of higher learning institutions and the MAF As a whole,” the statement added.

Following reports of bullying and abuse, MAF has implemented eight measures, including conducting a thorough investigation in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Police to identify and take appropriate action against the perpetrators. 

The Military Training Academy has installed 21 new CCTV cameras in the cadet officer dormitory blocks, increasing the total to 38 units across nine blocks, from the existing 17 units. 

The statement outlined additional measures being implemented, including the separation of accommodation for first-year and senior cadet officers to minimise physical interaction.

The MAF is also introducing a new initiative to assign a chief instructor on duty to closely monitor cadet officers, and conduct more frequent patrols, especially after 11 pm.

"The MAF remains steadfast in ensuring that abuse cases are not only addressed through disciplinary action but also by nurturing a culture of ethical behaviour, discipline, and mutual respect in all aspects of training and military life.

"With zero tolerance for violence or abuse, the MAF is committed to upholding the law and implementing appropriate measures to prevent such incidents from recurring, safeguarding the dignity of military institutions and the well-being of all cadets and personnel in training," the statement read.

Yesterday, Sultan Ibrahim, in his inaugural address as UPNM Chancellor, decreed that the culture of bullying and abuse at the university must cease immediately.

His Majesty urged all parties to work towards eradicating these ‘inhumane’ practices and restoring UPNM’s good name.

-- BERNAMA