THE alleged gang rape of a 15-year-old student by classmates in a Melaka secondary school is a stark reminder of the urgent need to reinforce moral education, discipline, and safety in schools, said Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
“This incident reflects a serious moral and disciplinary breakdown that must not be taken lightly,” he said in a statement.
“Schools are meant to be safe places for learning and personal growth. That such a serious crime could occur in a classroom setting is totally unacceptable and points to serious lapses in supervision, moral education, and awareness about respect, consent, and proper conduct among students.”
Lee stressed that the case should serve as a wake-up call not only for school authorities but also for parents and the wider community to prioritise character development in the nation’s youth.
“Beyond academic achievement, greater emphasis must be placed on character building, values education, and understanding of right and wrong,” he said.
He urged the Ministry of Education to review and strengthen school safety protocols, ensure the presence of effective counselling services, and create confidential reporting mechanisms for students who may experience or witness abuse.
“Parents, too, have a vital role to play by maintaining open communication with their children about respect, empathy, and the consequences of harmful behaviour. Communities must unite to create an environment where such acts are not only condemned but prevented through education and guidance,” said Lee.
He called for a full and transparent investigation into the incident, alongside firm disciplinary and legal action against the perpetrators, and immediate support for the victim.
“Every child has the right to feel safe at school, and we must act decisively to restore trust and strengthen safety within our education system,” he said.
Melaka police confirmed that four 17-year-old students, who are scheduled to sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination next month, have been remanded for six days in connection with the alleged gang rape.
The incident reportedly took place in a classroom at a school in Alor Gajah around 2.50 pm on 2 October, when the victim returned alone to retrieve her science project materials.
The case is being investigated under Section 375B of the Penal Code. - October12, 2025
