6 days ago
Ministry committed to curbing gangsterism
A TOTAL of 367 juvenile offences involving youths were recorded at Integrity Schools and Henry Gurney Schools as of June 2025, the Education Minister revealed.
Fadhlina Sidek (pic) said these included 172 drug offences, 21 sexual offences and other violations under laws such as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, Road Transport Act, National Registration Act and Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma).
In a written reply to Ahmad Fakhruddin Fakhrurazi (PN-Kuala Kedah), Fadhlina said her ministry was committed to curbing gangsterism and misconduct among students through a range of initiatives.
These included enforcement guidelines under SPI 6/2000 and the Safe School Programme (SPI 4/2002), which aims to ensure school safety and deter drug abuse and violence.
The Caring School initiative (SPI 5/2023) promotes stronger ties between students, teachers and parents to create a safer and more harmonious learning environment, she added.
The minister said guidance and counselling teachers played a key role in identifying at-risk students, offering psychosocial support and leading early interventions.
The appointment of Character Ambassadors, Peer Counsellors and student leaders also encourages positive peer influence, she added.
To further shape student behaviour, the ministry launched the Character Building for the Madani Generation pilot programme in 2024, she said.
Focusing on values, discipline, patriotism and volunteerism, it aims to build students' resilience against negative influences like gangsterism.
Following encouraging results, the initiative was expanded across all ministry institutions this year – from preschool to post-secondary – as part of efforts to foster safe, disciplined and student-centred schools, she added.
Fadhlina also said that students suspended for misconduct can take part in the 'Bangkit Bermaruah' community service programme, which offers a restorative approach to rehabilitation through structured outreach activities.
She emphasised that cooperation among schools, parents, police, local communities and education offices remains vital, adding that disciplinary action should not deprive students of their right to learn.
