In the past, a Guru had the right to physically punish a murid —a slap, pinching the ear, or standing in the sun for hours. This was justified by the philosophy of "Kasih sayang" (affection disguised as discipline). Parents would say, "Kalau dipukul guru, jangan lapor polisi, nanti guru nya marah" (If the teacher hits you, don't report it, or the teacher will be angry).