Fadhlina rejects claims that previous school cases were ‘silenced’

Education minister Fadhlina Sidek today rejected claims that earlier cases in schools had been “silenced”, saying investigations and other processes continue even after public attention fades.

Speaking at a press conference at Parliament, Fadhlina said a case did not end because it was no longer making headlines or being discussed on social media.

“Investigations, disciplinary action, legal proceedings and related interventions continue according to the respective authorities’ jurisdictions,” she said.

“Let us not confuse a case that no longer receives public attention with a case that has been stopped or silenced.”

Fadhlina also said the education ministry was prepared to review any case that allegedly did not receive the appropriate action.

“If there are cases that are alleged not to have received appropriate action, the ministry is prepared to review them and provide an explanation based on the records and actual status of the action taken,” she said.

Her remarks follow the death of a 16-year-old Form 4 student at a secondary school in Yong Peng, Batu Pahat, last weekend.

Irene Sofiya Khairoul Faisal was reportedly found by her grandmother, who went to the school after realising that she had not returned home at about 5.30pm after attending a tuition class.

On the Yong Peng incident, Fadhlina said she had ordered a comprehensive review of the management and security aspects at the school.

The review covers access control, patrols, CCTV, compliance with safety standard operating procedures and the performance of the school’s security company on the day in question, she said.

“If there was a breach of the contractual scope, action can be taken based on the stipulated terms, including a notice of non-compliance, financial action and termination of the contract if the conditions are met,” she said.

“If parties are paid to safeguard schools but fail to carry out their assigned responsibilities, the ministry will take action.”

Fadhlina also said that the education ministry had mobilised its psychosocial support team to assist the victim’s family, friends, students and affected school staff.

“We need to understand that the impact of an incident like this does not end when media attention ends. There are children and school staff who need time and support to return to their routines,” she said.

Caning not abolished

Fadhlina also clarified that caning in schools had never been abolished, following repeated calls for the punishment to be brought back.

She said caning is allowed for male students who commit certain offences, but must be carried out by authorised school personnel and follow strict procedures.

“The punishment cannot be carried out arbitrarily or out of anger, and cannot be carried out to the extent that it causes injury,” she said.

Fadhlina said every punishment must have a clear basis and be recorded according to the regulations in force.

The ministry will also clarify the procedures so that schools, parents and the public clearly understand what is permitted and what is not, she added.

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