Penang teacher under probe for allegedly assaulting 9-year-old

A teacher at a Chinese vernacular primary school in Penang is under investigation for allegedly assaulting a nine-year-old student, who sustained bruising as a result. The Penang education director has stated that the teacher has been temporarily reassigned to the district education office pending the outcome of the investigation.

This move is not intended as a punitive measure, but rather to separate the teacher and student while allowing for counseling, according to Berita Harian. The school's management has met with the parents of the student to discuss the matter. Furthermore, the police have been notified and are conducting their own investigation. The education ministry has requested an executive report to be submitted.

Penang Gerakan had previously called for an investigation into the complaint that the student had bruises on his back and arm after being physically disciplined by his teacher.