The Education Ministry (MOE) has allocated RM3 million to install CCTV cameras in 200 school dormitories under its supervision starting October 13, as part of efforts to enhance safety and curb bullying incidents.
Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said the installation sites were chosen based on advice from the Office of the Chief Government Security Officer (CGSO), and surprise inspections or “spot checks” will also be carried out to ensure compliance and safety.
He was responding to a question from Dr. Halimah Ali (PN-Kapar) in Parliament about measures to combat the growing issue of bullying, including prevention mechanisms, monitoring, early intervention, and strict action against offenders and negligent administrators.
Wong explained that the surprise inspections would be conducted even at night and involve top ministry officials, as well as state education directors and district education officers (PPD).
He said the ministry is taking a comprehensive approach through initiatives such as the Healthy Mind Screening, aimed at raising awareness on personal well-being, mental health, and emotional management. Other efforts include appointing Character Ambassadors, Peer Counselors (PRS), and student leaders to serve as role models and promote discipline, including responsible digital behavior.
Wong added that the Character Ambassadors and PRS act as mentors to help prevent misconduct among students.
Additionally, the ministry has set up a Committee to Review Bullying and Sexual Misconduct SOPs, tasked with refining procedures to ensure more systematic and comprehensive management of such cases.
He said the Bullying Complaint System has also been reformed to include an anonymous reporting feature, protecting the identity of whistleblowers and witnesses. Disciplinary action will be taken against administrators, teachers, and district officers who fail to handle reports according to guidelines.
Among other initiatives, the “Bangkit Bermaruah” (Rise with Dignity) program offers second chances to students to rebuild discipline and responsibility. School leaders will also receive training on the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 and their responsibilities under the “in loco parentis” principle, in collaboration with the Legal Affairs Division and the National Legal Academy.
Wong further revealed that the MOE is in the process of drafting the Education (Student Discipline) Regulations under the Education Act 1996, which will strengthen enforcement to address bullying and misconduct in schools.
This follows a rise in bullying cases recorded in the Student Character System (SSDM) — 7,681 cases in 2024, up from 6,528 in 2023.
“The fight against bullying requires continuous cooperation from everyone,” Wong emphasized. “The ministry believes that with the joint effort of schools, parents, communities, and relevant agencies, we can create a safer and more conducive learning environment.”
