Ministry expands CCTV coverage to 333 boarding schools to curb bullying

The Education Ministry has announced plans to expand CCTV surveillance to 333 boarding schools this year, accompanied by a RM5 million allocation, to enhance student safety and curb bullying incidents. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek disclosed the deployment of 300 MySTEP warden assistants to monitor hostel residents, especially during nighttime.

Expressing empathy towards parents' concerns, Fadhlina, a mother herself, acknowledged the ongoing efforts to address bullying in schools, citing measures implemented several years ago and new initiatives introduced after recognizing the need for further improvement. The ministry has bolstered its bullying complaint system by incorporating an anonymous reporting function on the MOE Bullying Complaint Portal, safeguarding the identities of complainants and witnesses.

Additionally, the S.A.F.E. Framework has been reinforced, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and rehabilitation, which includes Peer Support Groups and targeted counselling. Character Education will be integrated into the 2027 School Curriculum, emphasizing values like integrity and empathy. The ministry is collaborating with the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department to draft the Anti-Bullying Act 2026, which would establish an Anti-Bullying Tribunal for victims to seek redress.

In 2023, the ministry introduced Guidelines on Managing Bullying Misconduct to serve as an official reference for schools handling complaints, conducting investigations, imposing disciplinary actions, and implementing interventions. Fadhlina emphasized that the ministry must remain vigilant and continuously evaluate and address shortcomings until students feel secure in their educational environment.