UTAR and Universiti Sains Malaysia’s (USM) English Language Society jointly organised a bullying prevention and awareness programme titled “#stopbullying”, which featured a talk conducted on 21 May 2018 at USM, Penang.
Invited to give the talk was Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Tuan Chang Kut Choy, who is also the Chief of Mobile Patrol Vehicle Unit from North-East District Police Headquarters Department of Crime Prevention and Community Safety. Also present at the event were Penang Department of Prison Officers Tuan Inspektor Penjara Wan Mohammad Faizul bin Wan Lokman, Koperal Zabidi bin Mansor and Koperal Sapiron bin Abdullah, Organising Chairperson Edwin Moses, Event Secretary Nilaayini Muniandy, USM English Language Society President Teressa Peter Rome, USM staff and students.
The event aimed to raise participants’ awareness on the negative impact of bullying as it has become a serious social issue in Malaysia. In addition to that, the event hopes to foster a healthy relationship among the youths as well.
Chang began by explaining the terms used in bullying cases and the different types of bullying. He then highlighted a few cases from his experience and further explained about the actions that can be taken if one was involved in a bullying incident.
“If you are a victim of a bully, it is very important for you to speak up and inform those who are close to you. This simple action can protect you and even the others from being bullied. Furthermore, this will allow strict actions to be taken against the bullies as well,” said Chang.
An exhibition on anti-bullying was also organised at the event. It provided the participants with information on the consequences and legal punishments that will be taken against bullies. Other than that, the daily necessities used by prisoners, such as their clothing, hygiene items and eating utensils were displayed as well.
The “Volunteer Smartphone Patrol” (VSP) booth was also set up by the North-East District Police. VSP is a mobile application developed by the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) force as an effort to work together with the public for crime prevention. Users will need to download and register first in order to use the application. The application will allow the users to easily convey information or report cases to the police. Messages, photos, videos and the location of the incident can be included in their report without the need of being present at the police station.
The event ended with a souvenir presentation from Edwin to Chang.