It is ironic that while schools and hostels are meant to protect students, some of the gravest dangers can come from within.

Last month, a 14-year-old boy died after being found unconscious at a school hostel in Kuala Pilah, with police investigating an alleged assault. On Saturday, a 16-year-old schoolgirl was found dead in a school hall in Yong Peng, and three male schoolmates have been detained in connection with her death.

These tragedies are a grim reminder that schools and hostels, which should be safe places for children, are not immune to violence. Between 2021 and 2026, Malaysia has seen a disturbing series of bullying and assault cases involving students.

The Education Ministry's Student Discipline System recorded 21,307 bullying cases between 2021 and 2025.