Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the Ministry of Education (MOE) will hold engagement sessions with all stakeholders to explain the current guidelines for handling bullying offences, in response to one of the four demands in the #JusticeForZara memorandum submitted by student activists yesterday.
She said the ministry remains open to views and suggestions for improving the guidelines.
On calls for comprehensive education system reform, particularly on bullying issues, Fadhlina outlined measures already announced by the MOE:
- Conducting safety audits
- Improving the bullying complaint system
- Establishing a safety reform committee
- Taking stern action, including suspension and expulsion of bullying offenders
- Strengthening psychosocial support at all levels
She added that mandatory and periodic training for teachers, administrators, and wardens will continue to be enhanced to ensure readiness in handling bullying incidents.
Regarding the request for public explanation on the late Zara Qairina Mahathir’s case, Fadhlina said the MOE will fully cooperate with the police, with regular updates provided by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
“The MOE welcomes PDRM’s initiative to set up a special task force for Zara’s case,” she said, adding that she met with student activist representatives in Parliament to further discuss all concerns raised.
