Malaysian police investigate whether excessive gaming and hallucinations led to the shocking assault of a six-year-old boy.
A disturbing incident in Johor, Malaysia, has reignited concerns over the psychological effects of excessive online gaming, after a nine-year-old boy allegedly attacked his six-year-old brother following a dispute linked to the popular online game Roblox.
The Shocking Incident
The incident occurred in the early hours of October 27, 2025, at Parit Raja town in Batu Pahat, Johor. According to Johor Police Chief Datuk Abdul Rahaman Arsad, the nine-year-old boy reportedly experienced hallucinations before slashing his younger brother’s neck with a knife. Their mother discovered the wounded child around 5:30 a.m., and lodged a police report later that morning.
A Game Turned Obsession
Preliminary investigations revealed that the older boy had been playing Roblox excessively and had amassed nearly one million points in the game. The situation allegedly escalated when the younger brother accidentally damaged his phone, causing him to lose all his progress. In his statement to police, the boy claimed he began hallucinating that night and believed he was being “instructed” to harm his family.
Police Investigations Underway
Police are now investigating the possibility that the attack was triggered by anger and psychological distress related to the online game. Johor police confirmed that the motive remains under investigation, but initial evidence suggests a combination of game-induced rage and possible hallucinations. The case is being investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt and Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 for suspected neglect.
Victim in Stable Condition
The six-year-old victim was rushed to Sultanah Nora Ismail Hospital (HSNI) for emergency treatment. Medical staff confirmed his condition as stable, although his statement has yet to be recorded due to ongoing recovery. Police continue to gather evidence and testimonies from family members.
Parents Detained for Neglect
The boys’ parents, both in their early forties, have been remanded for questioning to assist police investigations. Authorities suspect the parents may have been aware of the older child’s excessive gaming habits and potential behavioral changes leading up to the incident. The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has since taken both children under its supervision while investigations continue.
Wider Concerns Over Gaming Addiction
The shocking case has sparked debate across Malaysia on the psychological risks of prolonged online gaming among children. Experts have long warned that excessive screen time, combined with competitive gaming elements, can lead to aggression, anxiety, and detachment from reality — particularly among young players. Police have also urged parents to remain vigilant about their children’s digital habits and seek help if signs of obsession or behavioral changes emerge.
The Johor incident serves as a tragic reminder of the darker side of digital entertainment. As authorities probe the role of online gaming in the attack, it underscores the urgent need for greater parental supervision, mental health awareness, and education around safe gaming habits — not only in Malaysia but across the region where gaming among children is rapidly growing.
Sources: Mothership (2025) , New Straits Times (2025) , Malay Mail (2025)
Keywords: Roblox, Johor, Child Attack, Online Game Addiction, Malaysia Police, Mental Health
