10-year-old cancer patient allegedly bullied in Johor school; Malaysia’s education minister vows ‘prompt’ probe

According to the New Straits Times, Izzul has been battling adenoid cystic carcinoma – a rare form of cancer that develops in glandular tissues – for the past two years. 

In the first incident, Suhana claimed that the bullying is believed to have stemmed from dissatisfaction after Izzul’s elder sister had rejected the advances of the 12-year-old alleged attacker, who had a crush on her.  

“The incident took place at about 5pm when my son was beaten, kicked and had his head slammed from side to side and was forced to remove his clothes … he frequently complained of headaches and became physically weak,” Suhana was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian. 

She added that doctors then confirmed that Izzul had suffered a concussion and required intensive treatment at a private hospital from Mar 12 to Mar 26.

Suhana said that she only knew of the incident after her daughter informed her on Mar 24, out of concern for her younger brother’s worsening condition. 

According to Sinar Harian, when she first lodged a report for the February incident, she was told that the case was deemed unsuitable for an investigation and the only action taken was a meeting between both families. 

Bernama meanwhile reported that no action was taken against the 12-year-old perpetrator as he is underage. 

“The impact on my son has been severe. He can no longer concentrate on his studies or participate in sports and the doctor also informed us that the healing process could take up to three years and he remains at risk of seizures if he falls or faint,” Suhana said. 

In the separate alleged incident this month, Suhana claimed that Izzul was bullied by a classmate. The boy was reportedly struck on the head and required hospitalisation, according to the New Straits Times.

“I don’t know why he is targeted. Perhaps it is because he looks weak from his illness. He is 80 per cent recovered from cancer but now he is fighting against bullies,” Suhana said, urging the authorities to take action for fear that the cycle of abuse could continue. 

Meanwhile, Johor State Education and Information Committee Chairman Aznan Tamin has confirmed that the matter is under review.