“Each of us deserves the freedom to pursue our own version of happiness. No one deserves to be bullied.”
— Barack Hussein Obama (1961 – present), 44th president of the US
Isn’t it infuriating how bullies operate — preying on the vulnerable, asserting dominance over the defenceless? If you feel that way, you’re certainly not alone.
More than five decades ago, I spent my formative years in an all-boys school hostel in southern Kedah. Under the supervision of a hostel master, boys aged 12 to 17 lived and studied together.
But as expected with boys growing up together, scuffles — which we called “rumbles” — and instances of bullying were common. Bigger boys often targeted smaller ones in the dorms and on the sports fields.
Being among the smaller boys, I endured my share of intimidation. While we let minor bullying slide, some of us learned to push back when things went too far. Though we often bore the brunt of those fights, we discovered that a well-placed punch could make a bully hesitate the next time. We learned early that bullies are usually cowards at heart, and they rarely bother with someone willing to stand up to them.
That same behaviour is evident today in a particular country led by a president now entering his second term — the 47th overall. His administration has begun by asserting dominance, issuing bold statements, and adopting policies that many view as aggressive and undiplomatic. Sanctions, tariffs, and threats — his tools of coercion — have disrupted global diplomacy and trade, sparking concern across continents.
These actions have had far-reaching impacts, including on Malaysia and our Asean neighbours. As Asean’s chair in 2025, Malaysia must help steer the region toward resilience and relevance. Here are some of the key repercussions we’ve faced:
1. Trade Tensions and Economic Fallout
East-West Trade War: Operating on the belief that “might makes right,” this president has ramped up a trade war with China, imposing tariffs and sanctions that have disrupted global supply chains. Asean nations, deeply interconnected with both economic giants, are feeling the strain. For Malaysia, a major exporter of electronics and palm oil, this uncertainty is unsettling.
Collapse of the TPP: Back in 2017, when he was the 45th president, he withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership over certain disagreements. This move weakened his country’s economic leverage in Asia and prompted Asean members to move forward with the CPTPP — without U.S. participation.
2. Regional Security and Stability
South China Sea Disputes: The administration’s assertive approach to China’s claims in the South China Sea has added friction. With more naval patrols and inconsistent diplomatic messaging, Asean states like Malaysia have been caught in the middle — trying to balance between courting U.S. support and avoiding conflict with China.
Diminished Engagement in Asia: Unlike his predecessors, this president has placed less emphasis on Asean in foreign policy. This disengagement has raised concerns about a growing power vacuum, one China might gladly fill.
Preference for Bilateral Over Regional Deals: Eschewing multilateralism, this leader favours one-on-one negotiations that spotlight his deal-making skills. Malaysia and other Asean countries now face pressure to strike individual deals, undermining the regional unity Asean has upheld for nearly six decades. If his intent is to divide and rule, this would be a textbook move.
In essence, many of the president’s tactics resemble classic bullying — using strength to dominate while weaker parties struggle to respond.
From our days as “hostelites,” we learned a few key lessons about handling bullies — lessons that remain relevant for leaders today. Here’s some advice drawn from those early life experiences:
Strategies for Standing Up to Bullies
- Refuse to Play by Their Rules: Bullies feed on drama and provocation, especially on platforms like social media. Don’t let outrage give them power. Stay calm and don’t take the bait.
- Respond with Facts, Not Fury: Bullies often twist facts and exaggerate. Counter them with solid, evidence-based points. Avoid personal attacks — truth is your strongest weapon.
- Use Humour as a Shield: Instead of responding with anger, use wit and satire. Public bullies hate being laughed at more than being challenged.
- Establish Boundaries: Bullies constantly test limits. Draw clear lines — and enforce them, whether in politics or everyday life.
- Target Their Vulnerabilities: Behind the bluster, most bullies are insecure. Identify their weak spots — whether it’s a need for validation or inconsistency in their actions — and leverage those flaws.
- Build Alliances: Isolation empowers bullies. Solidarity — in communities, organisations or international alliances — is the antidote.
- Push Back When Necessary: Sometimes, confrontation is unavoidable. When it comes, act strategically and collectively. Choose your battles carefully, but don’t shy away from them.
- Let Them Collapse on Their Own: Bullies often self-sabotage. Their overconfidence and lack of restraint eventually lead to their downfall. Sometimes, patience is the best approach — or a well-set trap.
We’re now living in a multipolar world — the old unipolar order is fading. With rising powers like China and Russia, the global balance is shifting.
It’s time to move toward a more equitable world order. Smaller nations must find strength in unity, foster cooperation, and reaffirm their self-worth. Look to countries like Canada and Denmark, which stand firm without needing to resort to aggression. Others, like Mexico and possibly the EU, may soon take stronger stances against unfair practices.
Bullies thrive on making others feel powerless. But strength lies in knowing your value, building strong networks, and speaking up with conviction.
And always remember: sometimes the most powerful move is to walk away. When a bully no longer gets a reaction, they lose their hold over you.