KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) has been urged to use the allocation under Budget 2026 not only for physical development but also to enhance safety in schools.
Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodi (GPS-Sri Aman) proposed that the government introduce a data-driven monitoring system to track cases of bullying and student misconduct, while also equipping teachers with the skills to identify early signs of behavioural problems and take proactive action.
She also proposed making modules focusing on empathy and compassion mandatory in schools, along with increasing the number of counselling teachers and psychology officers to achieve a ratio of at least one counsellor for every 200 students to curb the worsening social issues among youths.
Doris Sophia stated that, according to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), over 3,000 cases of bullying were recorded between 2022 and 2024, with nearly 60 per cent occurring in schools.
“Even more concerning, 400 cases of molestation and rape involving minors were recorded last year alone. These are not merely statistics, but a stark reflection of the moral and character challenges facing our children,” she said during the debate on the Supply Bill (Budget) 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (MUDA-Muar) also expressed concern over the rise in serious crimes within school environments, citing the latest incident in which a female student was fatally stabbed at a secondary school in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, earlier today.
He proposed installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in schools and taking firm action against those implicated in criminal cases on school grounds, including wardens and principals.
Syed Saddiq said the government must take a stronger stance in enforcing the ‘you touch, you go’ policy to combat bullying in schools, by taking prompt action, including prosecuting offenders, as a clear message that bullying will not be tolerated.
Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik (PH-Balik Pulau), interjecting during Syed Saddiq‘s debate, proposed that the government require all individuals working in schools, including teachers, security, and cleaning staff, to undergo screening similar to Australia’s Working with Vulnerable People before being allowed to work.
He said safety concerns in schools could erode parents’ confidence in the national education system.
Yeo Bee Yin (PH-Puchong), who also chairs the Dewan Rakyat Special Select Committee on Women, Children and Community Development, said the committee will summon the MOE and PDRM for a hearing before presenting a report on school safety in Parliament. — Bernama
