Penang Education Dept takes action over alleged assault of Year Six pupil

 

Penang Education Department director Mohamad Dziauddin Mat Saad said the department has taken action following allegations that a teacher assaulted a Year Six pupil at a school here. — PIC FROM JABATAN PENDIDIKAN NEGERI PULAU PINANG’S FB

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Education Department has taken action following allegations that a teacher assaulted a Year Six pupil at a school here.

Department director Mohamad Dziauddin Mat Saad said the teacher no longer has direct interaction with the pupil as a protective and preventive measure.

He said the northeast district education office had investigated the complaint and took follow-up action based on its findings.

"A consultation session involving the pupil's parents, the district education office, the school administration and the Parent-Teacher Association was held to discuss follow-up action and the welfare of those involved," he said when contacted today.

Dziauddin said the pupil had also been referred to the school's guidance and counselling teacher for appropriate support and intervention.

The teacher, meanwhile, had been referred to the district education office's organisational counsellor for guidance and support.

He said the department was aware that the pupil's parents had raised several issues regarding the handling of the case and that the department remained open to further discussions with them.

"We will continue to ensure the safety, welfare and wellbeing of pupils remain a priority, while maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment in accordance with the regulations in force.

"At the same time, the welfare and rights of teachers will also be safeguarded by ensuring every action is taken fairly, prudently and in accordance with established procedures," he added.

He said the department would continue monitoring the matter and take appropriate action based on developments and existing provisions.

The matter came to light after Penang MCA claimed a mother was dissatisfied with the lack of appropriate action over allegations that her Year Six son had been subjected to humiliation, physical violence and threats by a teacher.

According to the party, a statement from the parents' lawyer said the alleged incident occurred on June 19 after the pupil performed a Yasin recitation during a school assembly.

The teacher allegedly criticised the performance in front of the class and made a demeaning remark by comparing the pupil's recitation to that of a "Mualaf" (Muslim revert).

The teacher was also alleged to have hit the pupil's face and hands with a shoe, struck the left side of his face with a pencil case and thrown a book onto his desk, leaving redness on his face.

The case was reported to the school disciplinary teacher on the same day, while the pupil's parents also lodged a police report. - FMT