06.05.2026 23:36
A notable practice is being implemented in Singapore for male students who engage in bullying, including cyberbullying, at school. Under the new regulation, students may face caning of up to three strokes in certain cases. While the decision is stated to be a 'last resort' following rising bullying incidents, female students are exempted.
A new application drawing attention to school bullying has emerged in Singapore. Under new guidelines discussed in parliament, male students who bully others, including through cyberbullying, may face caning as a “last resort.” It was announced that students could receive up to three strokes under the regulation.
“TO BE APPLIED IF ALL OTHER METHODS PROVE INSUFFICIENT”
Education Minister Desmond Lee stated in parliament that corporal punishment would only be applied in serious cases and when other disciplinary methods have failed. Lee expressed that the practice would be carried out under strict rules and that the punishment could only be given with the approval of the school principal.
It was reported that before the punishment, administered by authorized teachers, criteria such as the student’s age, maturity level, and whether the punishment would have a positive effect on behavior would be evaluated.
INCREASED BULLYING INCIDENTS BEHIND THE DECISION
It was noted that the new regulation was prepared following a review process conducted over the past year. It was stated that school bullying cases that garnered widespread public attention last year were particularly influential in the decision-making process.
FEMALE STUDENTS EXEMPT FROM CANING
According to a report by The Guardian, it was announced that caning would only apply to male students aged nine and above. It was highlighted that the penal code prohibits caning for women, and it was reported that different disciplinary methods such as detention, suspension, or lowering behavioral grades would be applied for female students.
Authorities also announced that students would be monitored after the punishment and provided with counseling support.
INTERNATIONAL REACTIONS TO CORPORAL PUNISHMENT CONTINUE
Judicial caning, first implemented during British colonial rule in the 19th century, continues to be used for certain crimes in the country. This punishment can be applied to men under 50 convicted of offenses such as robbery, fraud, and visa violations.
Meanwhile, international organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization oppose the practice, arguing that corporal punishment harms children's physical and psychological development. The latest report published by the World Health Organization also emphasized that physical punishment has serious negative effects on child development.