SHAH ALAM, Oct 29 — The role of Peer Mentors (Pembimbing Rakan Sebaya – PRS) in schools must be strengthened as empathetic companions who help students manage emotional stress and prevent bullying, which is becoming an increasing concern among teenagers.
State executive councillor for women’s empowerment and social welfare Anfaal Saari said most recent cases of bullying and student violence stem from an inability to manage emotions and psychological pressure.
“Many students who appear aggressive or tend to bully others are actually burdened with emotional pain, anger, loneliness, or feelings of inadequacy. We should not be quick to label them as ‘bad kids’; instead, we must help them manage their emotions with compassion.
“The role of PRS is crucial because they serve as listening friends in schools. Sometimes, a person needs someone willing to listen without judging. Empathy is a strength, not a weakness,” she said when officiating the state-level Child Protection Advocacy Programme: 'Kasih Kanak-Kanak' (Peer Mentor – PRS) Selangor 2025 at the Shah Alam Convention Centre yesterday.
Anfaal added that an empathetic approach must become part of the school culture so that every student feels accepted and loved, not punished or marginalised for past mistakes.
The programme, organised by the Selangor Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Selangor Education Department, the Royal Malaysia Police, and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, was attended by 130 PRS students from 31 schools across the state.
The councillor also reminded students not to remain silent if they witness bullying, but to report it via Talian Kasih 15999, WhatsApp 019-2615999, or the Talian Kasih app for immediate assistance.
“We want schools to be safe spaces, places where students learn, build character and improve themselves, not places of fear,” she said.
Anfaal also thanked all strategic partner agencies for their commitment to strengthening the child protection system in Selangor and fostering a caring, bully-free school culture.
