Kuala Lumpur: Social issues such as child marriage, teen pregnancy, domestic violence, and intergenerational conflict cannot be resolved without the active involvement of the community and establishment of character education. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the educational approach, incorporating values, ethics, and character development into the curriculum, while also emphasizing the role of parents and the community in educating children.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina expressed concerns about social statistics that remain unchanged, particularly the high divorce rate, domestic violence resulting in women’s deaths, and family disharmony involving the elderly and children. She noted that the home is not a safe place for women when domestic violence occurs, leading to fatalities at the hands of partners. Fadhlina made these remarks during the ‘Pesona Inspirasi Keluarga MADANI’ programme.

She also stressed the importance of the Reproductive and Social Health Education (PEERS) module in addressing issues involving adolescents and children. She believes that the topic is no longer taboo in society given the ongoing social crises. The Ministry of Education (MOE) plans to implement the PEERS module starting from the 2027 school year. This module will be integrated into the Health Education curriculum from preschool to secondary school, aiming to equip students with psychosocial competencies and information necessary for informed decision-making in their daily lives.