New Anti-Bullying Law Holds Parents Jointly Responsible for Children’s Actions | KiddyNews

Parents may now be held legally responsible for bullying offences committed by their children under the new Anti-Bullying Act 2026, a move aimed at strengthening accountability and addressing bullying more effectively.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the Act introduces a parental responsibility provision, making families jointly liable for certain penalties, including fines imposed under the law.

Shared Responsibility Under New Law

Azalina said the legislation takes a different approach from most criminal laws, which generally place responsibility solely on the offender.

Under the Anti-Bullying Act 2026, responsibility may also extend to family members, reflecting what she described as a shared responsibility framework designed to encourage greater awareness and involvement in preventing bullying.

She said the provision includes joint liability for matters such as the payment of fines and related penalties.

Raising Awareness Among Children

Speaking at the launch of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal headquarters at the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC), Azalina said the tribunal was established in response to the growing number of bullying cases and their serious consequences.

She stressed the importance of helping children understand that bullying is a serious matter and should not be dismissed as harmless behaviour.

“We want children to know that bullying has consequences and that action can be taken through this channel,” she said.

Easier Access to Support and Justice

A total of 56 tribunal members, including legal professionals and child-related specialists, have been appointed to hear cases.

While the tribunal headquarters will operate from the AIAC, hearings may be conducted nationwide, including in schools, Legal Aid Department offices and online.

Six physical and virtual hearing zones have also been established across the country to improve accessibility.

Victims can bring cases directly to the Anti-Bullying Tribunal if incidents occur outside school or hostel grounds, without having to go through school management.

To make reporting more accessible, a public online portal has also been launched for the submission and registration of complaints.

Creating Safer Environments for Children

The introduction of the tribunal and the new law reflects ongoing efforts to create safer environments for children and young people.

The measures are intended to strengthen awareness, accountability and protection, while ensuring that bullying cases can be addressed through a dedicated channel designed to support children and families.

Source:

The Edge Malaysia – “Anti-Bullying Act 2026 introduces parental joint liability, says Azalina”

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