Bring back caning? Dewan Rakyat debate heats up as MPs push tougher discipline and anti‑bullying reforms

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 — The debate on the Supply Bill 2027 in the Dewan Rakyat concluded its first week focusing on education-related matters. Among the topics discussed were student discipline, safety, teaching quality, and the promotion of skill education. Lim Guan Eng (PH-Bagan) advocated for the reinstatement of caning as a disciplinary measure, citing his belief that its absence in the 1970s contributed to a rise in violent crime among students.

He proposed equipping schools with CCTV cameras and increasing security patrols. Ramkarpal Singh (PH-Bukit Gelugor) joined in, stressing the importance of addressing school safety and bullying issues, suggesting the appointment of more counsellors and the implementation of psychological assessments. Other MPs, such as Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (PN-Tanah Merah) and William Leong Jee Keen (PH-Selayang), also spoke about strengthening Form Six education and expanding access to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for rural youth.

Datuk Dr Richard Rapu (GPS-Betong) called for the expansion of TVET opportunities in rural areas, particularly in Sarawak, to provide equal opportunities for students who fail SPM exams. Datuk Muslimin Yahaya (PN-Sungai Besar) and Datuk Ali anak Biju (PN-Saratok) further emphasized the need for expanded TVET programs in rural areas to ensure more students can access quality education and secure better jobs.