Smartphone Use May Be Banned for Students Under 16, PMX Urges Principals Not to Hide Misconduct

Halfway through October, Malaysians have been “terrorised” by a series of disturbing incidents at schools across the country. From the classroom gang rape case in Malacca to the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old female student at a school in Bandar Utama, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has cited the possible influence of social media as a factor driving youth to commit such crimes.

In an effort to curb violence in schools, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has proposed a preliminary measure:

Students under 16 may be banned from using smartphones

“This is one of the steps to address safety issues in schools, including bullying and violent crimes among students.”

We find that the influence of social media and online games sometimes leads to many criminal acts,” PMX said in a statement yesterday (17 October).

According to the Prime Minister, studies on the implementation of this policy are still ongoing, though many countries have already adopted similar measures. When asked about education reform in light of recent cases involving rape, murder, and bullying in schools, Anwar said he had a brief discussion with Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek on Thursday regarding the issue.

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“The matter is being investigated. As I mentioned, the Minister of Education will provide a more extensive explanation. I hope that principals, headmasters, teachers, and parents can fully cooperate.”

“If you hide misconduct at school, you’re protecting a crime.”

Anwar also reminded school leaders not to cover up student misconduct under the guise of protecting the school’s reputation.

“If someone hides misconduct at school, then it is considered an offence, it means protecting a crime.”

He added, “Sometimes, they deem bullying cases as something minor. But if no one addresses them, they can escalate into something much worse over time.”

What do you think of Anwar’s take on this matter?

Also read: Melaka School Gang Rape: Two 17yo Defendants Cry, Hug Their Parents at Court as They Face Up to 30 Years in Jail