A Newswav poll with around 3,500 respondents shows strong public support for bringing caning back into Malaysian schools. About 83% voted “yes”, while 17% opposed the idea, reflecting a clear majority in favour of stricter disciplinary measures amid growing concerns over student behaviour, bullying, and violence in schools.
Why Many Malaysians Support Caning
The poll comes as national discussions resurface following reports that the Prime Minister expressed support for reintroducing caning under strict guidelines, and calls by senior politicians to consider it as a way to curb serious misconduct in educational settings. Separately, Lim Guan Eng has also called for caning to be reconsidered as a way to curb serious issues such as bullying and violence in schools.
Supporters of caning often view it as a traditional and proven disciplinary tool. Several poll comments pointed to Asian cultural values, arguing that firm discipline has long played a role in shaping character and respect for authority. Some respondents felt modern parenting and schooling have become overly permissive, contributing to issues such as bullying, disrespect, and lack of accountability among students.
Others described caning as an effective deterrent when used appropriately, particularly for serious offences. In light of recent high-profile school bullying and assault cases, some Malaysians believe stronger disciplinary consequences are needed to send a clear message that harmful behaviour will not be tolerated.
A recurring sentiment was that discipline, when paired with guidance and opportunities for reform, can help steer students back on track rather than pushing them out of the education system entirely.
Concerns and Calls for Caution
Despite the strong support, a minority of voters raised important concerns. Some warned that caning could be misused if teachers are not properly trained or monitored. Several comments stressed that discipline should not become an outlet for frustration or abuse of authority, highlighting the need for clear procedures and oversight.
A few respondents also questioned whether caning alone could solve deeper systemic issues, such as teacher quality, school culture, and family involvement, cautioning that discipline must be part of a broader support framework.
Do you agree with the poll results? Should caning be reintroduced in schools, or should discipline be handled through other approaches? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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