KUALA LUMPUR — Mara chairman Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki urged schools to stop normalising bullying as harmless pranks, calling it a crime that demands firm punishment regardless of who is involved.

His remarks followed the death of Form One student Zara Qairina at a religious school in Sabah, allegedly linked to bullying. Asyraf called for a coordinated anti-bullying effort involving teachers, wardens, parents, and students, and reminded parents to check on their children and report abuse.

He stressed that students must speak up against bullying without fear of stigma or retaliation, and warned MRSM principals not to conceal cases, promising strict action against any cover-up.

“There must be zero tolerance. Bullying is not banter,” he said. Police are currently investigating the Sabah case.