The Rise Of Silent Bullying Harm Is Not Always Physical Warns Beliawanis Mca

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IN LIGHT of recent developments and growing concerns about bullying in Malaysia, Beliawanis MCA has called for people to learn to recognise the signs of harm that are not immediately visible.
According to its chairperson Ivone Low Yi Wen, bullying is often associated with physical violence, yet some of its most damaging forms leave no marks on the body.
Non-physical bullying, often referred to as silent bullying, can be equally cruel and destructive. It hides in plain sight, disguised as a joke, a whisper, or a subtle gesture, but its effects can endure far longer than any bruise.
“Silent bullying may take the form of deliberate exclusion, where a group decides who is deemed worthy of friendship and who is not,” she elaborated.
“It can be the spreading of gossip or rumours that slowly erode a person’s reputation. It can also be the mocking of someone’s appearance, background, or way of speaking, framed as harmless teasing.
“It may also occur through non-verbal cues used to establish dominance, such as intimidating stares, dismissive gestures, or deliberate ignoring, all intended to make another person feel powerless without crossing lines that would invite punishment.”
Low said over time, such acts chip away at a person’s self-esteem, sense of belonging, and emotional wellbeing.
“The harm caused by silent bullying is often harder to detect because it affects the heart and mind of the victim,” she warned.
“It may surface as anxiety, withdrawal from social activities, declining school performance, or a loss of interest in hobbies they once enjoyed. Left unchecked, it can gradually weaken a young person’s confidence and leave lasting emotional scars.
“For some, the strain becomes overwhelming. Their voices grow quieter, their spirits diminish, and in the most tragic situations, they may resort to self-harm or even take their own lives.”
Calling for early recognition and timely intervention, Low stressed that parents, teachers and peers all play a vital role in breaking the cycle.
“We must also reflect on our own children’s behaviour to ensure they are not engaging in silent bullying,” she continued.
“Many may not realise the weight their words or actions carry. By fostering empathy, respect, and kindness from an early age, we can reduce the risk of such harm taking root.
“Bullying in any form is unacceptable, and protecting children from both visible and invisible harm must remain a shared responsibility.” ‒ Focus Malaysia

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