KOTA KINABALU, Oct 7 — The Sabah Education Department has intensified safety audits in boarding schools statewide as part of a nationwide initiative to safeguard student welfare and boost public confidence, particularly following isolated bullying incidents.
Sabah Education Director Datuk Raisin Saidin stressed that while such cases remain isolated, the department is taking no chances when it comes to ensuring student safety.
Speaking to reporters after the 2025 Education Assistance Handover Ceremony on Tuesday, Raisin assured that clear procedures are in place and actively enforced.
“There is no such thing as sweeping bullying cases under the rug,” he said.
“We have a standard operating procedure (SOP) set by the Ministry of Education, and every school must adhere to it,” he added.
Raisin said the implementation of these SOPs is not static and undergoes continuous review to ensure their effectiveness and relevance at the school level.
“At the state level, we comply fully with the SOPs set by the Ministry. However, we are always looking at how improvements can be made in their execution at the school level,” he said.
A key measure this year, he revealed, is the Ministry of Education’s directive requiring all schools — particularly boarding institutions — to conduct ongoing safety audits to assess and strengthen student security measures.
“We are now being very cautious and have taken many steps to ensure the SOPs are continuously observed. For example, the Ministry has instructed us to conduct hostel patrols and safety audits for boarding students. This is crucial,” he said.
The audits, which are to be implemented continuously, are aimed at raising both welfare and security standards for students.
Raisin said the ultimate goal is to restore and enhance public trust in the school system.
“This safety audit is part of our ongoing efforts to improve student welfare and safety, and ultimately to strengthen public confidence in the safety of students in schools,” he said.
While acknowledging the occurrence of isolated cases, Raisin emphasised that the department acts promptly and decisively.
“We do not deny that there have been isolated incidents, but we act immediately to ensure that such matters are handled appropriately and effectively,” he said. — The Borneo Post
