The Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) has allocated RM3 million for the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in 200 school dormitories under its management, starting October 13.
Deputy Minister of Education, Wong Kah Woh stated that the installation is aimed at ensuring enhanced security in dormitories in an effort to tackle bullying.
He added that the location of the CCTV installation was determined based on the advisory services of the Office of the Chief Security Officer of Malaysia (CGSO), in addition to surprise visits or 'spot-checks' also being carried out for the same purpose.
Kah Woh explained that surprise visits would be carried out with the MOE's top management, state education directors and District Education Office (PPD) officers, including at night to assess the level of compliance with the set standard operating procedures (SOPs).
MOE is also implementing comprehensive preventive measures through the Healthy Mind Screening program to raise awareness about the importance of personal well-being and mental health, as well as educating students in managing emotions and behavior.
The statement was made when he was answering a question from Dr Halimah Ali (PN-Kapar) on measures to deal with bullying cases, including prevention, monitoring, early intervention and strict action against perpetrators and negligent administration.
The appointment of Personality Ambassadors, Peer Mentors (PRS) and student leaders in schools aims to increase students' understanding and awareness to avoid committing disciplinary misconduct, including digital misconduct.
The Ministry of Education also established a SOP Review Committee for Bullying and Sexual Misconduct, which is responsible for studying and reviewing the SOP for the management of bullying and sexual misconduct to be more systematic and comprehensive.
In addition, the Bullying Complaints System Reform was also implemented by updating the complaints portal through an anonymous complaint function to protect the identity of complainants and witnesses.
The Ministry of Education is currently drafting Education Regulations (Student Discipline) under the Education Act 1996 to strengthen the enforcement of regulations following the increase in bullying cases from 6,528 in 2023 to 7,681 last year, according to the Student Identity System (SSDM).
