With the recent tragedies at multiple schools in Malaysia, many were quick to point fingers at school management, while others believed the Ministry of Education (MOE) was responsible.
Former Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli stated that the MOE should not bear full responsibility, as parents play a crucial role too. In a recent episode of the Yang Berhenti Menteri podcast, Rafizi reminded some parents, especially those who immediately shifted blame to other parties, to re-evaluate their children’s upbringing.
“Perhaps what is most appropriate is for each of us parents to look at ourselves in the mirror first.”
Not the real solution
Rafizi explained that simply attacking the MOE and its minister, Fadhlina Sidek, is not a real solution, even if it may feel satisfying to “vent the anger.”
“We have to ask: how much time do we spend with our children? How much do our behavior, attitude, and persistence influence them without us realising it?”
“How much do we actually know about what’s happening in our children’s lives? That’s a weakness I believe we need to improve over time,” he said.
He emphasised that part of the problem stems from parents’ inability to spend enough time with their children, often due to economic pressures, which has led to the increasing delegation of educational responsibilities to teachers. Rafizi also acknowledged his own efforts to avoid jumping to conclusions too quickly.
“It’s actually much more complicated, and I’m currently waiting for more information. I remind myself not to be quick to criticize, judge, or draw conclusions.”
He explained, “This issue is more complex than an economic one. It’s a reflection of who we are as a society.”
He added that the issue is also tied to community culture and must be addressed comprehensively.
Rafizi was responding to recent school tragedies, including a fatal stabbing incident involving 16-year-old Yap Shing Xuen, who was stabbed over 200 times by a 14-year-old suspect. A gang rape case in a Malacca classroom also shocked the nation last week, with two SPM candidates charged, one of whom has pleaded guilty.
What do you think of Rafizi’s take on this matter?
