THE ban on bringing and using personal devices including mobile phones by students in school areas remains in force, though the digital education environment is becoming more widespread.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ban, through the existing Special Circular (SPI), is to ensure that the learning environment continues to be safe, conducive and based on the well-being of students.
"In terms of the ban, it is clear to ensure safety issues. However, in line with the development of digital education, we have issued SPI number (2) 2018, a policy guideline for students bringing personal devices to school which allows the use of certain devices for teaching and learning purposes.
"So, in these guidelines, the conditions of use, regulatory procedures and responsibilities of students, teachers and administrators have been stated to prevent abuse such as inappropriate content access, screen addiction and excessive online gaming," she said in response to a question from Senator Dr Jufitri Joha during an oral question and answer session at the Dewan Negara today.
She said the Ministry of Education (MOE) has also implemented various intervention and awareness programs in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) to ensure that the use of devices among students can be handled prudently.
"At the same time, it is allowed with certain conditions due to the current needs and times, but must comply with questions of integrity. Our desire is to see that education returns to its original purpose, which is to humanize humans, to humanize people," she added. – December 18, 2025
