Punishment for UPNM Cadets Involved in Bullying Cases to be Announced
Decision Expected Within Two Weeks
The decision on the punishment against five cadets from the Military Training Academy (ALK) of the Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) involved in two bullying cases last month will be announced within two weeks. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin made this announcement after launching the Kota Tinggi Parliamentary Volunteers at the Kota Tinggi Parliamentary Service Centre.
Punishments to Include Expulsion, Fines, and Repayment of Sponsorship Funds
The punishments, which include expulsion from the academy, fines, and repayment of all sponsorship funds received during their studies, require approval from the Armed Forces Council. According to Mohamed Khaled, the ministry has already made a decision regarding the involved cadets, who will indeed face penalties, including expulsion, fines, and the repayment of all expenses borne by the government during their time as cadets at the university.
Ministry Takes Bullying Incidents Seriously
Mohamed Khaled emphasized that the ministry takes bullying incidents at UPNM seriously and will take firm action against those involved, including individuals who conceal such cases. "Anyone involved in cruelty, bullying, and abuse will face severe punishment, and we will also tighten measures against those who hide or fail to report bullying cases," he said.
Bullying is Not Part of Military Training
The minister stressed that bullying is not part of military training as stipulated under cadet officer regulations. "I want to clarify that while military training is indeed tough, it does not involve acts of cruelty such as assaults with hot irons," he said.
No Plans to Prohibit Use of Irons at ALK-UPNM
However, Mohamed Khaled said that there are no plans to prohibit the use of irons at ALK-UPNM, despite the appliance being frequently used as a tool in bullying incidents.
Recent Incidents
On November 8, ALK-UPNM cadet officer Amirul Iskandar Norhanizan, 22, pleaded not guilty at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court to a charge of injuring Muhammad Salman Mohd Saiful Surash, 20, using a hot steam iron at the academy in UPNM at 11:45 pm on October 22. On November 10, another bullying case involving a UPNM student was reported, where a first-year student sustained serious injuries, including fractured ribs and spine, after being stomped on by a senior in an incident on October 21.
Conclusion
The ministry is taking a firm stance against bullying at UPNM and will ensure that those involved face severe punishment. The decision on the punishment for the five cadets will be announced within two weeks, and the ministry is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all students.
FAQs
Q: What are the punishments for the cadets involved in the bullying cases?
A: The punishments include expulsion from the academy, fines, and repayment of all sponsorship funds received during their studies.
Q: Does the ministry take bullying incidents at UPNM seriously?
A: Yes, the ministry takes bullying incidents at UPNM seriously and will take firm action against those involved, including individuals who conceal such cases.
Q: Is bullying part of military training at UPNM?
A: No, bullying is not part of military training as stipulated under cadet officer regulations.
Q: Are there plans to prohibit the use of irons at ALK-UPNM?
A: No, there are no plans to prohibit the use of irons at ALK-UPNM.