KOTA BHARU, April 10 — The Defence Ministry (Mindef) has stressed that it will not be lenient in implementing standard operating procedures (SOP) regarding bullying and abuse among military personnel, said its deputy minister Adly Zahari.
Relentless action will be pursued at the ministry level and in accordance with the law.
He said Mindef would not compromise with any member of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) who crossed the line by engaging in bullying.
“Emphasis is given to the SOP in addressing bullying cases. Although these cases may be considered isolated, action will still be taken.
"As stated by the Army Chief, there have indeed been some cases reported, but we have a clear SOP with two approaches — action at the ministry level and internal MAF measures," Adly said after attending a Madani Aidilfitri celebration at the Chinese Chamber of Commerce hall today.
He added that Mindef does not condone any form of bullying, even though military training is conducted rigorously according to prescribed modules.
The ministry has an internal mechanism, including a special committee, to differentiate between disciplinary training and bullying behaviour.
“We have made several decisions regarding bullying cases and have issued warnings that perpetrators will face legal action,” Adly said.
He also noted that additional measures have been taken, including increasing the number of wardens at the Royal Military College, keeping junior and senior students separated, and installing closed-circuit cameras at strategic locations.
“Besides that, we also provide psychological rehabilitation spaces, advisory services and education to raise awareness among students and families,” Adly said.
On Monday (April 7), it was disclosed that 41 army officers and personnel were dismissed from service due to bullying and abuse cases of victimising lower-ranked personnel since 2019.
Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan said the group was comprised of 12 officers and 29 other personnel.
In earlier news reports, Muhammad Muqriz Aseri, 21, from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment in the Sri Miri Camp, Sarawak, died on March 24 due to blunt force trauma to the chest.
— Bernama
