Suhakam moots diversion policy after teen pleads guilty to punching teacher
PETALING JAYA : The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has called on the government to implement a diversion policy for children who break the law, after a teenager pleaded guilty in court to punching one of his teachers.
A diversion policy allows children accused of minor or non-violent offences to be redirected away from the criminal justice system into community-based programmes focused on education, counselling, and behavioural support.
In a statement, Suhakam children's commissioner Farah Nini Dusuki said such an approach would not only reduce the risk of criminalisation and social stigma but also address underlying issues such as trauma, neglect, or mental health.
'Such a policy is not a denial of accountability, but a shift towards restorative and rehabilitative justice, which is proven to be more effective and humane for children,' she said.
The 14-year-old student was detained by police two days ago after punching and threatening his teacher at a secondary school in Kajang on Monday.
Kajang police chief Naazron Yusof said the student had become upset after being reprimanded for skipping a physical education class.
The boy pleaded guilty to injuring the teacher at the Kajang magistrates' court on Wednesday.
Farah said the incident should serve as a catalyst for reflection on broader systemic issues, such as whether schools have sufficient proactive and positive behavioural support, and whether students have timely access to mental health services.
She also urged the education ministry, school administrators, and relevant stakeholders to improve the preventive support systems that prioritise the well-being of both students and educators.
'Malaysia must move beyond punitive responses and embrace a child justice system that reflects compassion, equity, and the best interests of the child,' she said.
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