In response to the classroom gang rape incident in Malacca that shocked the nation, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek visited the school this morning (12 October) to gain a deeper understanding of the case, which involves a 15-year-old victim and four 17-year-old suspects scheduled to sit for the SPM examination in November.
Here’s what Fadhlina said regarding their exams:
All four suspects will still be allowed to sit for the SPM examination, which begins on 3 November.
According to Fadhlina, although the students are currently under investigation by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), their right to education should not be disrupted.
“Although the students are under investigation, it is important that they are able to catch up with their studies so their examinations are not affected,” she said at a press conference today.
Fadhlina also stated that the Ministry of Education will deploy psychological counsellors to the school to support the students.
“This is a school with excellent academic performance. The case has been handed over to the police for further investigation,” she added.
All four suspects are currently in police custody until 16 October.
The victim is receiving treatment and counselling at the hospital
The incident occurred on 2 October, when the victim was allegedly gang raped by two of the suspects, while the other two recorded the act and stood guard near the classroom stairs. The video was circulated among students, prompting a teacher, who was informed of the incident, to lodge a police report. All suspects were subsequently detained.
In a statement issued yesterday (11 October), Fadhlina assured the public that no one will be protected in this case, and those found guilty will face the strictest punishment. The Ministry also pledged full cooperation with the police and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on such horrific acts.
Stay tuned as we keep you updated.
Also read: Dr Akmal Wants Teachers to be Given Power to Rotan Students Following Gang Rape Case in Melaka
