Stars Voice Concern, Back School Smartphone Ban

By Atira Khalisha Nor Adnan

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- Bullying in schools remains a pressing concern in society, with a growing number of cases reported involving not only physical violence but also emotional harm that threatens both the safety and mental well-being of students.

The increasing number of bullying incidents, including those widely shared on social media, has prompted the government to propose several proactive measures. Among them is restricting smartphone use among students under 16, aimed at curbing the negative influence of social media linked to cyberbullying, aggressive online gaming, and disciplinary problems.

Acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, local celebrities Bella Astillah and Elizabeth Tan voiced their concerns for the younger generation’s safety. Both expressed support for the government’s initiative, describing it as timely given the alarming rise in school-related incidents.

The proposal, one of three measures decided by the Cabinet last Friday, was seen by the singer-actress duo as a necessary step in addressing the challenges faced by today’s students.

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As a mother to Mohamed Ayden Adrean, 8, and Ara Adreanna, 5, Bella — whose real name is Dayang Ara Nabellah Awang Astillah, 31 — admitted she is often moved by reports of bullying and crime occurring in institutions regarded as safe havens for children.

“Bullying, whether big or small, still leaves an impact. Parents must always talk to their children because school has become their second home. (The smartphone ban proposal makes sense because) at that age, children should be focused on their studies and family.

“Social media can be a supplement, but it’s not a necessity. If introduced too early, I worry they might be exposed to harmful content,”   said Bella, best known for her song Lebih Indah Berpisah (‘More Beautiful Apart’), when met at the Suara Semua 2025 Carnival here.

In addition to considering a smartphone ban for students under 16, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reportedly said the Cabinet had also recommended that the police and Home Ministry step up safety monitoring in schools.

The Cabinet further suggested enhancing educational content, with support from parents and Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBG), to instil moral values and positive character among students.

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Although the recommendations are still under review, Elizabeth Tan noted that such measures, including limiting social media access, could help shape a younger generation that is emotionally healthier.

 “In Australia, they actually have a law. Now that I think about it, kids under 16 are not allowed to have social media. It’s actually illegal, and if they are found to have accounts, their parents can be fined.

“So I think that is an interesting law, especially moving forward, because social media — especially with algorithms — is getting more dangerous. For example, if you watch a violent video and like it, the algorithm will keep pushing similar content,” she explained.

Nevertheless, the Knock Knock! singer stressed the importance of strong parent-child relationships, which allow children to openly share their problems without fear.

-- BERNAMA