PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA Oct 1, 2025 – The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering integrity and eradicating bullying in higher education institutions (IPTs) with the launch of the “Be A Buddy, Zero Bully” initiative. The campaign was unveiled during the closing ceremony of the Certified Integrity Officer (CeIO) Program Series 43/2025 at Dewan Za’ba in Putrajaya yesterday.
Officiated by Higher Education Minister Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, the event highlighted the ministry’s efforts to combat bullying while promoting ethical values. The minister launched the campaign’s theme and iconic logo, “Be A Buddy, Zero Bully – Upholding Integrity, Rejecting Bullying,” symbolizing a collective pledge to eliminate toxic behaviors in campuses across Malaysia.
In his remarks, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Azam Baki emphasized the need for clear political commitment and societal collaboration to root out corruption. He reminded attendees that anti-corruption measures require unwavering dedication from all levels of society.
The CeIO program, organized by the Corporate Integrity Development Centre (CIDC), Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy (MACA), and MACC, serves as a key training platform to strengthen Integrity Units in the public sector. This latest series, running from July 21 to September 30, 2025, saw 59 integrity officers from various ministries, government agencies, statutory bodies, and local authorities complete the course.
Earlier in the day, the Integrity Sustainability Seminar (SKI) featured an exclusive forum titled “Bullying: Where Is Our Integrity?” The discussion delved into the integrity crisis surrounding bullying and proposed practical solutions to build a culture of respect and empathy among IPT students. Over 600 participants, including university administrators, dormitory wardens, lecturers, CeIO trainees, and students from public and private IPTs, attended the session.
KPT officials stated that such initiatives not only bolster integrity but also contribute to shaping an ethical and competitive younger generation. This aligns with national aspirations to develop human capital that is principled and accountable, ensuring a safer and more supportive environment in higher education.
The ministry’s ongoing anti-bullying and integrity efforts come at a time when reports of campus bullying have raised concerns, prompting calls for stronger preventive measures. With “Be A Buddy, Zero Bully,” KPT aims to empower students and staff to stand against bullying through awareness and community support.