Look beyond guards, CCTV cameras to ensure school safety, govt told

G25, a coalition of former civil servants, is urging the Malaysian government to adopt a more holistic approach to school safety and student well-being. The group argues that the current measures, such as installing CCTV cameras and hiring guards, are not addressing the underlying issues that lead to violence among students. They emphasize that children today face a multitude of pressures and are increasingly exposed to violence through various mediums, including entertainment and social media.

The group's call for action comes in response to a series of violent incidents in schools, resulting in the tragic loss of students like Irene Sofiya Khairoul Faisal. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has acknowledged the issue, reporting a total of 5,681 bullying cases in schools during the first eight months of the year. The government has pledged to invest RM15 million in the installation of CCTV cameras at 1,000 schools as part of its efforts to enhance student safety.

However, G25 expresses concern over a reactive approach to school safety, where measures are implemented in response to each tragedy, without a comprehensive review. They advocate for an independent, comprehensive review involving stakeholders and experts, rather than conducting individual reviews following each incident. This review should encompass various aspects, including physical security, hostel supervision, CCTV coverage, bullying and disciplinary procedures, mental health support, and the effectiveness of existing policies.

G25 emphasizes that the safety and lives of children should not be subject to a series of isolated reviews, but rather, a thorough examination of the root causes of violence within school environments.