21/01/2026

WEDNESDAY | JAN 21, 2026

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Malaysian Paper

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COMMENT by Dr Madiha Baharuddin

M ANY Malaysians remain hesitant to discuss workplace cyberbullying, despite increased media coverage. Recent reports highlight growing concerns over online harassment, including hateful messages in office group chats and co-workers spreading rumours on social media. Although these incidents rarely make front-page news, they occur frequently and affect more people than commonly assumed. As a working woman, I have seen how digital communication – meant to improve our work lives – can be used in subtly cruel ways. Often, the most damaging part is not the act itself but the silence that follows. Why do those who are bullied struggle to speak up? Why do so many choose to endure their suffering in silence? Employees may remain silent due to confusion about their rights. Many do not pay attention to news on workplace bullying and harassment, often overlooking legal updates and policy notices that outline their protections. Employees are often not given enough information to recognise and know what constitutes harassment or cyberbullying. They are also rarely informed about the proper steps to take or whom to report incidents to. As a result, many employees come to see late-night harassing messages from supervisors or ridicule in group chats as acceptable treatment and feel compelled to “just deal with it”. This normalisation of online harassment fosters a culture of silence in the workplace. In addition, employers may be reluctant to report harassment or bullying. Fearing reputational damage, some dismiss employees’ concerns or channel complaints into lengthy internal processes that rarely lead to resolution. In some cases, employees are required to report harassment to the very supervisor who committed it, leaving them without support. This creates a system that protects those with power while silencing the most vulnerable. Fear of speaking up often stems from feelings of inferiority and the belief that voicing concerns exposes vulnerability. For women, this fear is compounded

Breaking the silence on cyberbullying at work

“From an ethical perspective, everyone has a basic obligation to treat others with respect, compassion and fairness. This includes the right to be protected from harm and to work in an environment that supports

As individuals, we should check in on co-workers, offer support and advocate for justice when we witness wrongdoing. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/ THESUN

if employees do not have a safe place to work. Online harassment is a growing concern, with the potential to impact lives, careers and overall well-being. To create healthy workplaces, we must break the silence and recognise that words sent online can be as damaging as those spoken face-to-face. As a collective effort, we must choose kindness, fairness and courage over fear. As cyberbullying happens online, its impact is deeply human, and it is time we respond with humanity. Dr Madiha Baharuddin is a senior lecturer at the Department of Fiqh-Usul and Applied Sciences, Academy of Islamic Studies, Universiti Malaya. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

model responsible and ethical use of online communication while colleagues must challenge bullying behaviours. Policy changes alone are not enough; they must be paired with genuine dialogue, increased awareness and organisations that truly listen. Employees also need clear guidance on what constitutes cyberbullying and how to respond if it occurs. Organisations must provide secure channels for employees to report incidents and ensure action is taken when assistance is requested. As individuals, we should check in on co workers, offer support and advocate for justice when we witness wrongdoing. While much is said about digital transformation, innovation and future ready workplaces, there can be no future

by concerns about being labelled “emotional”, blamed or seen as unable to handle pressure – risks that may cost them future opportunities. In many workplaces, silence feels safer than speaking up. As a result, employees often shoulder their burdens alone instead of taking action that could allow their wounds to heal. At this point, we must reflect on values – human and, in some cases, spiritual. From an ethical perspective, everyone has a basic obligation to treat others with respect, compassion and fairness. This includes the right to be protected from harm and to work in an environment that supports dignity and well-being. Companies must foster a culture of compassion, not fear. Leaders should

dignity and well-being.