Police have launched an investigation into an alleged bullying case at Malaysia’s National Defence University (UPNM), following a report made by a 20-year-old second-year cadet. The complaint, filed on November 1 led to an inquiry under Section 324 of the Penal Code, concerning voluntary harm with dangerous weapons, as explained by Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
According to the report, the incident occurred on October 22 at around 11:45 p.m. at a UPNM dormitory. A fourth-year senior cadet allegedly ordered the victim to iron his clothes before seizing the iron and pressing it onto the victim’s right chest causing him burns and intense pain. The victim, who screamed in response, received medical advice to confirm the injuries.
Further investigation revealed that other senior cadets were present in the room during the incident. A statement from the victim was recorded at the Cheras police headquarters. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir clarified jurisdictional responsibilities, stating that UPNM oversees students from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. while the Military Training Academy (ALK) assumes responsibility from evening until morning.
He emphasized that this bullying case falls under the Defence Ministry’s jurisdiction as military training sessions are involved. The Malaysian Armed Forces have confirmed an internal investigation is also underway. This disturbing case has reignited memories of a similar tragedy in 2017 when UPNM cadet officer Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain was tortured with a steam iron and died from the injuries.
That case shocked the nation and led to the death sentences of six former UPNM students for Zulfarhan’s murder. This recent incident has raised serious concerns about cadet safety at UPNM, prompting public calls for stringent anti-bullying measures and stronger protections for students. The investigation is ongoing.
