Ragging: A harmless tradition or a lethal threat?

WHEN we talk about society, there is no running away from the political and psychological conduct intertwined along.

Junior sub-ordinates facing disruptive and offensive behaviour by their seniors is a practice observed to be done since man longs for power and status while living together in a formed group either formally; in working and studying organisations or informally such as living alongside many family members in a house.

People learn a pattern of behaviour through observation or through feedback and consequences.

Ragging can be done either physically or verbally to create a feeling of freight or to intimidate an individual usually in their first few years of coming into that new organisation or setting. Hence, this impacts one’s physical and mental well-being.

In the past, most seniors consider this practice as part of an 'introduction development' believed to be made compulsory to make new students 'aware' of their boundaries of where not to cross by instilling fear and subsequently believed to produce 'bolder' and 'more adaptable' beings once they have graduated.

How far are these true? Should we remain with this old-fashioned theory?

Additionally, thanks to history and lessons learnt through news and social media, seniors should know by now their boundaries as well when it comes to ragging. Nevertheless, history always seems to repeat itself.

Why are these students not learning from others’ past mistakes? How far is too far?

Back in the days, ragging was done in a lighter and milder tone by playing, practising and spreading practical jokes to welcome their freshmen and make them more relaxed and comfortable for the armed divisions in many countries.

It then followed by a sequence of physical jokes that can be a little bit torturous and grievous. Slowly but surely, this practice spreads across nations and continents. Bizarre, right? Perhaps not at that time. Who knows?

Having said that, time has shifted and flew.

More and more people are aware of their own rights. More studies and researches have also been conducted and it has been impeccably proven that the practice of ragging is a selfish and deplorable crime which can cause serious social, physical and mental impediments.

The negative impacts causing emotional, physical and social problems among victims and their loved ones should not be neglected. What are the ways to ensure that we put a stop to this traditional practice of ragging?

I may not be an expert in armed, defence or the military forces but leadership studies (a build-up of any organisation), human communication and literacy is under my area of expertise. While sharing my two cents on these subjects through the incorporation of moral ethics, I believe we should always practice justice regardless of caste, status, power and age.

Take note that an icebreaker is an important aspect especially in the leadership context between juniors and seniors to build relationship to develop teamwork and respect. Thus, the importance of orientation but at the same time knowing the right strategies to set the boundaries and setting clear rules in organisations without practicing injustice and cruelty are crucial efforts in ensuring continuous growth and sustainability.

For instance, during my time when I was doing my degree in university, the form of ragging done during orientation week was for us to stay and camp out in the coolest area of our campus without having proper mental and physical preparation for those. You live with what you have.

For certain boarding high schools, theirs can be continuous in practice; hence 'asking for favours' throughout the year even after orientation week. An alumnus from a prominent boarding school in Melaka shared that,

“Seniors might even go as far as demanding you to wash their clothes, prepare their meals late at night when they feel hungry or even iron their uniforms. The worst I got was a few punches on my ribcage for rejecting those 'favours asked' verbally.”

In Malaysian politics, ragging typically refers to a form of hazing where it can be a mixture of both verbal and at times psychological. As the same with any, senior politicians bully or intimidate younger or newer member to assert dominance or test one’s loyalty.

It may involve public criticism, exclusion from meetings and being assigned demeaning tasks which create toxic internal cultures.

As Malaysian politics used to be hierarchical and respect-based and supposedly heading towards reformation; hence challenging the authority or breaking any sort of norms may lead to informal penalties like ragging especially with a direct and data-driven communication style which has clashed with older political narratives, one will be a target for subtle forms of internal pushback especially when the leader must 'satisfy' many parties.

My my my, I respect and applaud that data-driven communication style, though! Not many are able to do that. Continuously.

Despite advocating for change, questions are raised concerning ragging in terms of nepotism versus the much hated “cronyism.” Like it or not, one’s rise either due to merit or lineage, that is open to debate.

Let us face it, we all know in this ever-competitive world, with any amount of knowledge and experience you have, if you do not find the right person or place to go, you would be lost any way.

Sadly, the broader problem for reform politics when ragging and nepotism co-exist, dear Lord!

The consequences are severe as real talented young leaders will get discouraged or pushed out, the party itself loses credibility among reform-minded voters who expect meritocracy and transparency. Moreover, critics of nepotism are sometimes sidelined or punished, even when their critiques are valid. With a long sigh and frustration, the entire structure begins to mirror the very systems of cronyism and authoritarianism it once vowed to reform.

I acknowledge that old habits die hard and many would argue that ragging within some limitations is all fun. However, all of us should strongly agree that ragging should not cross certain specific limits and serious punishments should be given to those who participate in damaging forms of ragging.

The question is: Do we all have different definitions of damage? Its severity?

Stop the cycle.

While traditions can provide a sense of identity and continuity, it is important to critically access their relevance and impact in today’s world.

Adapting or abandoning harmful or outdated practices can lead to a more equitable society. Engaging in open dialogue about traditions can help society evolve while still honouring their group and self-identity.

God always calls for justice and is against discrimination and prejudices, as mentioned, “O mankind, I have created different people and tribes that you may know one another and not despise or hurt one another.”

Make small moves by practicing justice in your daily action.

1. Listen more,
2. Befriend with someone of a different age,
3. Share your feeling and experiences,
4. Do not jump to conclusions and double-check. Finally,
5. Offer your support. Either it is your helping hand or your listening ear, your support means the world to another.

From stories of educational institutions (learners hurt and deceased) to workplace bullying (toxic environment) and moving to the local political scene (surprisingly so happens when writing this topic), I hope the issue of ragging will wear down in time.

SYAZUIN SAZALI is a subject matter expert in soft skills. In each writing, she aims to share an actionable short idea, quotes from others and one question for you to ponder upon. The views expressed in this article are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sinar Daily.