Kuala lumpur: The School Pupil Protection Policy is set to enhance the safety and well-being framework for students, aiming to distribute responsibility across various stakeholders rather than placing the onus solely on teachers.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek explained that the policy offers structured guidelines for actions to be taken by multiple stakeholders whenever issues regarding pupil safety and welfare arise. She emphasized that the policy delineates responsibilities, ensuring clarity over who should act in response to safety and well-being concerns. Teachers are encouraged to promptly report any complaints or suspicions to administrators without needing complete evidence.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) plans to increase engagement sessions and briefings to address educators' concerns and clarify their roles. Past sessions have involved the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP), Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and several NGOs.

The policy underscores a collaborative protection framework involving the MOE, State Education Departments (JPN), District Education Offices (PPD), and external agencies like the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Social Welfare Department (JKM). Once a report is lodged, the case is coordinated, with appropriate actions determined based on its nature and severity, and referrals to relevant authorities are made as necessary to prevent repeated trauma due to mishandling.

Fadhlina acknowledged the limitations of a single document in addressing all concerns, highlighting the need for ongoing briefings and engagements to ensure teachers understand their roles and responsibilities. She assured that the MOE would support teachers, including providing legal assistance when needed, and clarified that the policy is not intended to blame or scapegoat teachers.