Education Ministry launches guidelines to deal with bullying and sexual harassment of students

BUKIT MERTAJAM - The Education Ministry has launched guidelines for the management of bullying and sexual harassment in educational institutions to curb the symptoms of misconduct among students.

Its minister, Fadhlina Sidek said that the two guidelines are very important and will be applied in all educational institutions under the supervision of the Education Ministry to ensure that both issues can be managed well.

She said the implementation of the guidelines covering various components will be detailed through a circular letter that will be issued to all educational institutions.

"This is our big commitment and that's why I mentioned that the three big sins are bullying, sexual harassment and racism. We will not compromise on these.

"These guidelines will be used in all educational institutions under the ministry, not only in schools but matriculation, form six institutions and teacher education institutes," she said at a press conference here, on Friday.

Earlier, Fadhlina launched the two guidelines at the Tun Syed Sheh Shahabudin Science High School, here in addition to inaugurating the Distinguished character - stop bullying to create better and smarter children.

Fadhlina who is also a Member of Parliament for Nibong Tebal, said the programme, aims to provides guidance and awareness to students about the dangers of mental and physical bullying, in addition to increasing students' knowledge from the aspect of regulations, laws and punishments for offenses committed.

She added that it can also educate students to have a strong identity and to not get involved in bullying.

When asked about the current situation of bullying problems in schools, Fadhlina said it is still under control since her side has an efficient work process.

"If there are parties who are still not satisfied with this process, they can take legal action against any action we have taken," she said.