The ministry said it will not tolerate any form of bullying in all educational institutions under its management.

“The education ministry is deeply saddened by this incident and wishes to convey its condolences to the family of the victim, a vocational college student in Lahad Datu, Sabah.

“The death of the victim is still under investigation by the authorities and the ministry is ready to provide its full cooperation,” the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said it had taken immediate action by providing welfare assistance to the victim’s family.

“Psychosocial support has been offered to the family members, other students, teachers and all college students,” according to the statement.

Yesterday, the 17-year-old male student was found dead on the floor with injuries and bruises on several parts of the body in the dormitory.

Lahad Datu police chief Rohan Shah Ahmad said police believed that there was a misunderstanding between the victim and other students that allegedly led to his death.

He said 13 male students, aged between 16 and 19, were detained to assist in investigations under Section 302 of the Penal Code.