Previously, the Ministry of Education (MOE) reiterated its stand against using the rotan as a form of punishment in schools, saying it prefers an approach that emphasises values, manners, and character development.
This came after a gang rape incident at a school in Melaka, which led UMNO Youth Chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh to call for teachers to be given the authority to cane students who break school rules.
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“Extra RM5 million allocated for CCTV installation”
Following this, MOE said it’s looking to strengthen the role of principals and headmasters, as well as the School Discipline Committee, in handling student disciplinary issues in schools.
This is part of several new measures aimed at tackling student discipline issues and improving safety across all schools under the MOE, which will be rolled out soon.
“The roles of principals, headmasters, and disciplinary committees will be strengthened to better handle student misconduct. Current rules and guidelines already include the authority to cane, suspend, or expel students,” the statement read.
Furthermore, MOE asserted that principals and headmasters can give the authority to teachers to discipline students should the need arise.
The ministry added that an extra RM5 million has been allocated to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in selected schools nationwide, on top of the RM3 million that was previously set aside for the same purpose.
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At the same time, 10,096 new teachers, including more than 500 guidance and counselling teachers, will be assigned to schools nationwide next month.
“This move will help meet current needs and strengthen students’ psychosocial support. In addition, 600 full-time hostel assistant wardens will be appointed from among MySTEP personnel to improve safety monitoring in school dormitories and lighten the workload of hostel wardens,” it said.
Additionally, school-level collaboration committees will also be strengthened in partnership with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), which will include the involvement of school liaison officers.
Continuous training will be provided for teachers
The “Smart Support Team” at the state education department (JPN) and district education office (PPD) levels will continue to be strengthened to provide psychosocial support during crisis situations.
At the same time, teachers will receive ongoing training to help them be better prepared for emergencies at school.
“The MOE is also reviewing the student discipline regulations. The Student Personality Development System (SSDM) will be improved to be used more proactively in managing and preventing disciplinary issues.”
The ministry also urged schools to focus on taking concrete steps to address rising disciplinary issues.
It stressed the importance of listening to both teachers and students, saying dialogue sessions should be held to better understand their needs and concerns.
“The ‘student voice box’ initiative is in line with UNICEF’s call to amplify children’s voices. The Child Protection Policy (CPP) will also be finalised soon to help protect students in schools,” it added.
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