The Penang State Education Department (JPNPP) has initiated an internal investigation to examine all aspects related to the alleged sexual harassment and cyberbullying incident involving a female student at a secondary school in the state.
In a statement today, JPNPP said it is also providing full cooperation to assist the police investigation into the case, which is currently ongoing.
The department said its main priority at this stage is to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected student, with psychosocial support interventions being carried out to assist the victim.
JPNPP stressed that it would not compromise on any form of sexual misconduct or bullying, adding that strict action would be taken against any individuals found responsible.
The case came to public attention after the mother of a Form Five student, who is also a Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidate, appealed for help after claiming her daughter had been subjected to sexual bullying and cyber harassment since April.
The 46-year-old woman alleged that her daughter’s face and images had been manipulated using artificial intelligence technology before being circulated through posters displayed around the school, public areas and social media platforms.
She claimed the family had lodged three police reports and submitted complaints to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regarding fake social media accounts that used her daughter’s name and photographs.
The daughter, who works part-time as a model, is believed to have been targeted through the misuse of her personal images, with the family seeking further action to protect her from continued harassment.
Authorities are continuing investigations while the education department carries out its internal review to ensure appropriate measures are taken.
