By Dr Zaamah Mohd Nor

The recent #JusticeForZara movement highlights the ugly reality of bullying in schools, which is sadly not new.

The families of the victims of some past cases are still seeking closure, grappling with questions yet to be resolved. Zara's tragic passing, however, stands apart, as it sparks a likelihood of an attempt to shield those accountable for her suffering.

If proven, this is not only an obstruction of justice, but it sends a disturbing message that some people (believe that they) are above the law.

The death of an innocent is the worst-case scenario of bullying. However, it can't be denied that its detrimental effects go far beyond the visible.

Victims who remain alive may deal with emotional trauma of anxiety, depression, and broken self-esteem for years.

It may also lead to physical injuries requiring hospitalisation and causing long-term disability, imposing a financial and emotional burden.

Life-shattering

For young ones, this is life-shattering as their education and future career may be at stake as well. All this pain, if left unattended, can become so tormenting that it gives way to self-harm and even suicide.

As for the bullies, inflicting harm on others could be a reflection of their unresolved personal issues, unstable home environments, and/or distorted views on power.

A “simple” act of hitting someone may make them feel powerful and superior, putting up a brave surface to conceal all weaknesses or troubles.

These, if left unaddressed, can manifest as lifelong relationship crises, diminished self-worth, and, even worse, patterns of aggression and violence that continue into adulthood.

Parents need to realise that protecting a child from the consequences of bullying is not an act of love whatsoever; rather, it is a harmful, risky denial.

When children do not face up to the repercussions of their actions, they will never learn empathy, let alone take responsibility and respect others.

Strengthened legislation

On the part of the government, there has to be strengthened legislation against bullying, uniformly and impartially enforced.

The school environment must be shaped in such a way that it is free from any harm and mistreatment. As for society, confronting bullying is not just a matter of expressing anger on social media.

We must be vigilant against any abusive surroundings. The phrase “kids will be kids” should not be normalised as an excuse for cruelty.

Real change will only come when every stakeholder carries a strong commitment and integrity in their actions against any delinquency.

As the saying goes, "the axe forgets, but the tree remembers”. While the bullies may move on, the wounds inflicted on the victims are indelible, forever etched in their lives.

The “axe” itself may be an object filled with unattended emotional damage that can be self-destructive.

Stopping bullying altogether

We must create measures that STOP bullying altogether and (if it still occurs) protect the vulnerable victims at all costs. We must lawfully punish not only the bullies but also those conspiring to “hide” them.

This is crucial to sternly teach them a lesson and warn others against committing the same CRIME. Eradicating bullying should both be for the sake of victims and to prevent a further generation of tormentors.

Every child's life is precious. Let #JusticeForZara be more than a moment; let it serve as a powerful call that enough is enough!

-- BERNAMA

Dr Zaamah Mohd Nor is a Senior Lecturer with the Academy of Language Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam.