Campus safety at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) is under intense scrutiny as recent bullying cases cast a harsh spotlight on the university’s environment.
In just a matter of weeks, two alarming incidents involving severe abuse have emerged, drawing renewed attention to a persistent culture of violence that has marred Malaysia’s premier military institution.
Families, students, and the public are now questioning whether enough is being done to protect cadets from harm.
Freshman suffers fractured ribs and spine in alleged assault by senior cadet
The latest incident, reported on November 8, involved a freshman who was allegedly stepped on by a third-year trainee during a roll call, resulting in fractured ribs and spine injuries that required hospitalisation.
This case follows closely on an October 30 revelation, where a second-year cadet was found with steam iron-shaped burns on his chest—a chilling echo of the 2017 incident involving Zulfarhan Osman, who suffered fatal injuries from similar abuse.
Police confirm criminal investigation: “Victim now receiving medical care”
Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa confirmed receiving a report regarding the freshman’s case, stating, “The victim is now receiving medical care due to the injuries sustained,” and further noted that the case is being investigated under Section 325 of the Penal Code, which pertains to the infliction of grievous hurt.
The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) responded to the earlier burn incident with a firm statement, promising a thorough investigation and ensuring that “no one involved would be shielded from consequences if found guilty.”
According to sources, the cadet’s injuries were accidentally discovered during an unarmed combat training exercise, prompting swift reporting and action by university staff.
