THE Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced 11 additional measures that will be implemented in the near future to improve security and address student discipline issues in all educational institutions under its management.
According to a statement issued by the ministry, to strengthen security infrastructure, the MOE has allocated an additional RM5 million for the installation of closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in identified schools.
This allocation is in addition to the RM3 million previously allocated.
In terms of psychosocial support and management, a total of 10,096 new teachers, including more than 500 Guidance and Counselling Teachers, will be placed in schools nationwide in November 2025 to meet current needs and improve the psychosocial aspects of students.
In addition, 600 Full-Time Assistant Hostel Wardens will be appointed among MySTEP personnel.
This appointment aims to improve monitoring of the safety of students and reduce the workload of Hostel Wardens.
The MOE is also strengthening the collaboration committess schools in collaboration with the police, including the function of School Liaison Officers.
PDRM will carry out safety monitoring at all educational institutions of the MOE.
The 'Smart Support Team' function at the JPN and PPD levels will also continue to be strengthened to assist from psychosocial aspects in crisis situations.
In disciplinary management, the MOE emphasizes the increased role of Principals and Headmasters as well as the Disciplinary Committee in dealing with student disciplinary issues in schools.
The regulations and guidelines currently in force also involve the power to cane students, suspend schools and expel schools.
Principals and Headmasters are also given the authority to delegate authority to teachers to discipline students based on need. However, the MOE is currently in the process of redrafting student discipline regulations.
This was welcomed by teachers and parents, with most agreeing that if the caning is not excessive, there should be specific guidelines, and that the matter should be communicated to parents through an official letter or memo to prevent teachers from being 'attacked' if their children are caned.
The Student Personality Development System will also be reviewed and improved, and should be used proactively to manage disciplinary issues.
Meanwhile, the Child Protection Policy (CPP) will be finalized in the near future to protect students in schools.
The voices of teachers and students in schools need to be given attention through meeting and dialogue sessions, including the ‘student voice box’ initiative which is in line with UNICEF recommendations.
The MOE, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), will also strengthen the mental health screening program starting from Year One to Form Six, including ongoing psychosocial intervention and support for students. – October 22, 2025
