Kuala lumpur: Higher learning institutions have been granted the authority to cancel internship placements and recall students if safety concerns are identified, Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim announced. This decision is part of a proactive approach to ensure students' well-being during industrial training programs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister Adam Adli emphasized that such measures can be implemented following thorough assessments by the educational institutions or based on reports from students that highlight potential safety risks. This initiative was discussed during a question-and-answer session at the Dewan Negara, where the deputy minister expressed the government's regret over incidents involving students in industrial training. The recent incident involving the death of a Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) student during maintenance work at a water tower in Kuala Selangor was cited as a case in point.

The deputy minister further detailed that universities are responsible for conducting comprehensive evaluations of an organization's safety record and reputation before approving placements for students. This is particularly pertinent for students entering high-risk sectors, where only organizations with robust safety management systems and requirements are deemed suitable for student placements.

Adam Adli also stressed the importance of preparatory measures. Students are required to complete safety courses or obtain relevant certifications before starting their industrial training, especially in high-risk environments. These preparatory activities include briefings and training on workplace safety, risk management, and emergency procedures.

In addition to these pre-placement requirements, students will be monitored throughout their training period. Academic and industry supervisors will ensure oversight through physical or virtual visits, progress report evaluations, and regular communication with the students.

To further safeguard students, Adam Adli mentioned that all students participating in industrial training are covered under the University Group Insurance Scheme, providing them with protection against accidents or untoward incidents during their training period.