Starting from the 2026 school session, students transferring between schools will be required to submit health reports, including mental health assessments, and disciplinary records under new school safety guidelines introduced by the Education Ministry.
The updated guidelines aim to strengthen school safety by addressing bullying, sexual harassment, and physical security. The ministry’s Special Committee on School Safety is reviewing outdated standard operating procedures (SOPs) to align with current needs and challenges.
Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said external agencies such as UNICEF and the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) are involved in the review process. The reforms focus on five key areas: mental health, reproductive and social education, teacher welfare, student voice, and student protection.
“Various ministries and expert agencies, including the Health Ministry, Welfare Department, and police, are also involved to strengthen teachers’ skills in handling mental health issues, trauma, and student safety,” he told Utusan Malaysia.
Under the revised SOPs, schools must provide complete student records during transfers. In the past, transfers often lacked detailed documentation, leaving receiving schools unaware of students’ backgrounds, which sometimes contributed to incidents.
The ministry is also auditing school safety and teacher deployment through the Inspectorate and Quality Assurance Division, assessing teacher attendance, security, workload, and overall wellbeing, including conditions during daytime and nighttime.
A “School Pledge” will be introduced under the student protection policy, involving commitments from schools, parents, and students to ensure safe and disciplined learning environments. The ministry will also implement the “Hero Friend” concept, training peers to support classmates facing stress or emotional challenges.
For teachers, initiatives will focus on stress management, mental health awareness, and support for handling at-risk students or those with special needs.
These programs are currently being piloted in 100 schools, including Sekolah Angkat Madani, which receive additional support from government-linked companies and community partners. Enhanced facilities, such as CCTV systems, will also be installed to improve safety.
“The ultimate goal is a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach involving parents, communities, and the social sector, ensuring that these education reforms are impactful and sustainable,” Dr Mohd Azam said.
