LETTER | True independence goes beyond breaking free from colonial rule - it means liberating our society from the grip of crime and the destructive culture of bullying.

As MIC deputy president M Saravanan rightly stated, “Bullying is not part of our values”.

Bullying is no longer a trivial issue limited to schools or social media. It has become a widespread crisis that threatens mental health, personal safety, and the future of our communities.

Despite thousands of reported cases in schools and educational institutions, Malaysia still lacks a clear definition of bullying.

The consequences are undeniable. Victims endure fear, humiliation, and deep psychological trauma.

In the most tragic cases, bullying has led to suicide.

For children, the damage can be lifelong - forcing them out of schools and universities, leaving emotional scars that never fade.

This is not just a youth problem - it’s a societal one. Whether in classrooms, universities, workplaces, or online platforms, bullying erodes trust, dignity, and unity.

It replaces freedom with fear, and hope with hostility.

We must act now. Not tomorrow. Not when tragedy strikes. But now - by raising awareness, enforcing accountability, and fostering a culture rooted in empathy, respect, and zero tolerance for cruelty.

In a powerful show of commitment, the National MIC Brigade held the Merdeka Ride campaign. This initiative not only celebrates the spirit of independence but also takes a bold stand to protect future generations from the corrosive effects of bullying and crime.

The urgency is clear. Bullying cases in Malaysian schools surged to 7,681 in 2024, up from 6,528 in 2023 - a staggering increase of over 17 percent, according to the Student Discipline Management System.

Victims of bullying are urged to seek help immediately by contacting the MIC National Brigade’s hotline at +6017-9090 997.

The writer is the private secretary of MIC deputy president and Tapah MP M Saravanan.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.