The Ministry of Education (MOE) has strengthened its efforts to tackle bullying and sexual misconduct in schools with the Civil Leadership Movement: Stop Bullying and Sexual Misconduct program. The initiative, launched under Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, aims to ensure students and teachers receive direct support through engagements in schools nationwide.
Education Director-General Azman Adnan, speaking at the program’s first session at SMK Mutiara Rini, emphasized the MOE’s unwavering commitment to address these critical issues. He highlighted that the initiative builds upon previously issued guidelines for managing bullying and harassment cases in schools effectively.
Rising Bullying Numbers Spark Action
Azman revealed concerning statistics during the event. Last year alone, 6,528 bullying cases were recorded, and as of October this year, another 6,208 cases had been reported.
To address this, the MOE has implemented proactive measures. A Bullying Complaints Portal has been introduced to offer multiple reporting options.
Students and parents can submit complaints through the Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA), dedicated phone lines, emails, WhatsApp services, and even complaint boxes provided in schools.
In addition, the ministry has issued comprehensive guidelines, including circulars and governance procedures, to ensure schools properly manage bullying and harassment cases. Awareness programs and various support activities have also been implemented, aimed at educating students on prevention and creating safer school environments.
Personality Ambassadors: Student-Led Support
A key highlight of the program is the Personality Ambassador initiative, which empowers selected students to act as role models. These ambassadors promote positive values, assist peers experiencing difficulties, and foster a safer school environment.
At SMK Mutiara Rini, four students—Cheng Kai Neng, Diong Chuan Xuan, Muhammad Hadif Imran Helmee, and B. Shavithasri Nair—were appointed as ambassadors. Cheng, 17, shared his experience of helping a bullied friend by facilitating counseling sessions and providing emotional support.
Creating a Safe School Ecosystem
Azman stressed the importance of creating an inclusive, safe, and positive ecosystem to encourage student attendance and engagement. He reminded schools of their responsibility to report all cases of bullying and sexual misconduct to the ministry.
The launch of the Personality Ambassador Kit last November further supports this initiative, offering tools and resources to help ambassadors influence their peers and uphold noble values.
With this nationwide program, the MOE continues to work towards fostering a supportive and secure school environment for all students.
Source: Bernama
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