Additional RM15mil to install CCTV cameras at 1,000 schools next year

The Malaysian government plans to invest an additional RM15 million next year to install CCTV cameras in 1,000 schools, as part of initiatives to enhance student safety. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced this during Prime Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat. This funding is in addition to previous allocations of RM3 million for CCTV installations and RM5 million for fully residential schools.

In other security-related developments, the government plans to hire 5,107 guidance and counseling teachers, appoint 300 MySTEP personnel as assistant hostel wardens, and train 400 wardens in psychosocial skills. The authorities have also permitted police to enter schools in uniform to bolster safety measures. Additionally, the government aims to strengthen the authority of school principals, headmasters, and disciplinary committees, while allowing teachers to delegate disciplinary powers.

Anwar highlighted that improving the Student Discipline System and providing students with avenues to express their concerns are also part of the government's efforts. The Student Discipline System has been revamped, alongside initiatives to provide students with avenues to express their concerns. The government has introduced a School Student Protection Policy and mental health screening.

He addressed concerns about ongoing safety issues, emphasizing that due to the scale of the education system involving over 10,000 schools nationwide, safety measures had to be comprehensive. With 10,259 schools in Malaysia accommodating more than 5.13 million students and 428,339 teachers, Anwar stressed the importance of awareness among teachers and students to complement firm action when incidents occur.