Schools Told to Report Sexual Misconduct Complaints Immediately

Gambar: BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) has reiterated that all complaints involving sexual misconduct in schools must be addressed immediately, rejecting allegations that action is only taken after cases gain attention on social media.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek stressed that school administrators are required to report and act on complaints as soon as they are received. She said the ministry has clear procedures in place for handling such cases and that delays in reporting or responding are unacceptable.

Her remarks came amid public discussions on several recent cases involving alleged sexual misconduct in schools. Responding to claims circulating online that authorities only react after incidents become viral, Fadhlina firmly denied the accusation.

According to her, investigations and intervention measures begin once official reports are lodged through the proper channels. She emphasised that schools, district education offices（PPD）and state education departments（JPN）are expected to follow established protocols without waiting for public pressure.

Fadhlina also reminded school leaders that student safety must remain the highest priority. Any allegation involving sexual misconduct should be documented, referred to the relevant authorities and managed according to ministry guidelines.

The minister said school administrators should not attempt to conceal, downplay or delay complaints. Instead, they must cooperate fully with enforcement agencies and child protection authorities whenever investigations are required.

She further encouraged parents, students and members of the public to continue reporting suspected misconduct so that prompt action can be taken. The ministry, she added, remains committed to ensuring schools provide a safe environment for learning and will continue monitoring how complaints are handled at every level.

The MOE has repeatedly maintained a zero-tolerance approach towards sexual misconduct in educational institutions, stressing that the welfare and protection of students must always come first.