The Education Ministry views seriously a recent bullying incident at a school in Johor Baharu, the video clip of which has been posted on Youtube.

Its deputy minister Wee Ka Siong said an investigation into the incident was underway, to know what really happened and the identity of the students involved.

"We are also asking the school and state education authorities to submit a report on the incident and to ensure that such an incident does not recur," he said after officiating at the Tan Chong Group Bowling Championship, Petaling Jaya, yesterday.

A local Chinese newspaper reported yesterday that a video clip of a school bully slapping her schoolmate in front of other students at the school had been posted on Youtube.

The film also showed the bully, called Big Sister by others, lighting up a cigarette and giving a "lecture" to the victim.

The victim was seen crying while others watched.

The village head had also reportedly confirmed the incident but no police report was lodged.

'Parents have a role'

Wee, who is also MCA Youth chief, said parents had an important role to play to ensure their children were not involved in bullying other students at school.

"Close rapport between parents and the school authority is also important to avoid such a problem. We don't want a situation where parents question or blame the teachers when disciplinary action is taken against their misbehaving children.

"Find out first why their children are being punished. Some behave well at home but it's a different story at school," he said.

- Bernama