The National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) has recently been in the spotlight due to multiple bullying cases, especially after the tragic incident involving the late Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain.
Many students from the university have come forward, claiming they were bullied by senior cadets. This has caught the attention of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, who has expressed his disapproval of the ongoing bullying cases.
“Don’t associate my name with UPNM”
In a Facebook post, the King shared his disapproval over the abuse at UPNM that led to injuries and even deaths, stressing that everyone needs to step up and put an end to this unhealthy culture.
Sultan Ibrahim also mentioned that if the abuse and torture keep happening, he doesn’t want his name tied to the university anymore.
The caption of the post reads,
“If this abuse and torture continue, don’t associate my name with UPNM. Everyone needs to work together to stop this unhealthy culture and fix the university’s reputation.”
“Parents send their children there to learn, not to be tortured”
Sultan Ibrahim also pointed out that while becoming a military cadet requires tough physical and mental training, it should never lead to abuse that causes harm or even death.
“I believe parents send their children here to learn to be military officers, not to be tortured,” Sultan Ibrahim said at the 14th UPNM Convocation Ceremony at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL).
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong went on to express his disappointment that abuse is still happening, especially since no serious action has been taken despite previous cases being brought to court.
“The main philosophy of UPNM is to be a leading university in defence, military, and security, with discipline and military culture at its core. The Commander and Commandant must take responsibility and step down for failing to do their job,” His Majesty stated.
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Also read: Yet Another Bully Case in UPNM as 19yo Student Suffers Fractured Ribs After Being Stomped by Senior
