KUALA LUMPUR – The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has described “period spot checks” as a violation of a child’s rights and goes against the law as due to the element of sexual harassment or abuse.
Children’s commissioner Professor Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal said pursuant to Article 28 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which was ratified by Malaysia in 1995, a state party is obliged to ensure that schools implement discipline in accordance with the rights and dignity of children.
“Under the same convention, too, Article 16, 19 and 36, respectively, states that a child has a right to privacy; protection from abuse, violence and neglect; and, protection from other forms of exploitation that include sexual exploitation and harassment,” she said in a statement last night.
In recent days, students have taken to Twitter to reveal the practice of “period spot checks” on female students during Ramadan at schools, claiming they were also asked to take off their underwear to prove they are menstruating and can be excused from fasting.
Aziah reminded the Education Ministry of its responsibility to protect all children from any sexual harassment and exploitation, as envisaged under Article 34 of the CRC.
She urged the ministry to take stern action against teachers and school authorities who have been violating children’s rights and dignity.
“Clearer disciplinary guidelines must be developed to ensure such acts are not repeated.
“It is important for Malaysia to ensure a safer environment for the future generation,” she added.
Aziah also called on all ministries and stakeholders, including parents and teachers, to come together to ensure all children are safe in school. – Bernama, April 24, 2021
