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As we emerge from the festive spirit of Aidilfitri — a time symbolising unity, forgiveness, and peace — we are confronted with the harsh reality of a recent surge in reported incidents of violence in Malaysia. Disturbingly, these incidents involve not only civilians1 but also a military officer.2 From road rage and domestic disputes to public altercations and confrontations involving uniformed personnel, violence has unfortunately become a recurring feature in our news cycle.3
Violence, in any form, is never justified — even in retaliation. There is a line that must not be crossed, whether one is a civilian, or a military or enforcement personnel. While the right to self-defence is protected, it must not escalate into unnecessary force or retaliation. Our laws are clear: the Penal Code addresses acts of violence comprehensively,4 stipulating punishments ranging from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity and circumstances. These provisions make it unequivocally clear that violence, irrespective of motive, is unlawful.
In addition to enforcing the law, it is essential to prioritise prevention. Identifying and addressing the root causes of violence — such as poverty, lack of education, and social inequality5 — can significantly reduce the occurrence of violent acts. As a society, we must foster open dialogues about anger management, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence from an early age, integrating these values into our educational systems.
Furthermore, community-based initiatives and mental health support can empower individuals to resolve disputes peacefully and seek help without resorting to violence. It is crucial that we not only react to violence but also work proactively to build a culture where empathy, understanding, and mutual respect, thrive. By reinforcing these principles, we create an environment where violence is neither tolerated nor perpetuated, ensuring a safer and more harmonious society for all.
Allowing violence to persist fosters a dangerous culture where frustration translates into harm, undermining the rule of law. As a nation, we must collectively condemn all forms of violence — be it on the streets, in homes, or within enforcement ranks. It is through restraint, wisdom, and faith in justice that Malaysia can truly progress as a civil, just, and humane society.
Let us not allow emotions to dictate our actions. Let the law guide us forward, fostering a society where justice prevails over chaos.
Given the subject matter addressed and as today marks the 57th anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr’s assassination,6 it is only fitting to conclude with the following excerpt from his book, Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?:
“The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy. Instead of diminishing evil, it multiplies it. Through violence you may murder the liar, but you cannot murder the lie, nor establish the truth. Through violence you murder the hater, but you do not murder hate. In fact, violence merely increases hate. So it goes. Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”7
Mohamad Ezri b Abdul Wahab
President
Malaysian Bar
4 April 2025
1 “‘Ramadan slap’ in Malaysia goes viral as social media responds with satire”, South China Morning Post, 21 March 2025.
2 “Anggota tentera tumbuk pemandu wanita sudah ditahan”, Sinar Harian, 30 Mac 2025.
3 “Malaysia Plagued by Slapping Disorder? Another Slapper Caught on Camera”, The Rakyat Post, 25 March 2025.
4 “Section 319: Hurt” is defined as causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity to any person; “Section 320: Grievous hurt” covers more severe harm, such as permanent loss of sight, hearing, or dismemberment; and “Section 323: Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt” provides for imprisonment of up to one year, or a fine of up to RM2,000, or both.
5 “Addressing the Escalating Crisis of Youth Violence in Malaysia”, Emir Research, 24 April 2024.
6 Assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., Encyclopaedia Britannica, last updated 28 March 2025.
7 Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community? Dr Martin Luther King, Jr, Beacon Press, 1967.