RM1.5 juta setahun NUTP bantu guaman guru

NUTP, or the Union of National Educational Services, has allocated RM1.5 million annually to support the legal costs of its members who face legal action related to their duties as teachers. President Aminuddin Awang explained that this assistance covers both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecutions, with some cases potentially costing up to RM80,000.

He emphasized that civil lawsuits are increasingly being filed against teachers by individuals or the public for various reasons, some of which may be resolved without involving the courts. Following his appearance at the NUTP's 24th Annual Representatives' Conference, Awang also mentioned that the union offers assistance to teachers facing criminal charges, particularly if there is evidence of harassment against the teacher concerned.

So far, NUTP has provided financial support to 16 cases, including three cases currently being heard in Kelantan. Common issues faced by teachers include charges under Section 323 of the Criminal Offences Act related to reckless causing injury causing minor harm. Despite the criminal charge, NUTP will still provide legal representation to its members.

The union has a dedicated panel of legal fund representatives to manage member cases and encourage non-member teachers to join the union to access such legal benefits.