Govt reviews student protection policy after teachers protest

 The national teachers' union had opposed the policy's requirement for teachers to sign an undertaking, fearing possible legal implications.

Education minister Fadhlina Sidek said teachers who had yet to sign or refused to sign the undertaking would first be given explanations about its purpose, scope and implementation. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

The education ministry is reviewing the implementation of its student protection policy, including undertaking forms opposed by stakeholders over concerns about their potential implications for teachers.

In a written parliamentary reply, education minister Fadhlina Sidek said the review would take into account feedback from those implementing the policy and other stakeholders.

“This is important to ensure its implementation is clear, practical and does not cause confusion among teachers, school staff, external parties and other stakeholders, without compromising the policy’s main objective of protecting students’ safety and wellbeing.”

Previously, the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) voiced opposition to the policy, particularly the requirement for teachers to sign an undertaking form confirming their compliance with the policy.

Teachers had expressed concern that this would put an unfair amount of responsibility on them to protect the wellbeing of students while exposing them to legal implications.

Fadhlina said teachers who had yet to sign or refused to sign the undertaking would first be given explanations about its purpose, scope and implementation.

Issues or concerns raised by teachers will be examined and addressed through administrative channels, she added.

She was replying to Ahmad Johnie Zawawi (GPS-Igan), who asked how many teachers had signed or refused to sign the undertaking, and whether action would be taken against teachers who did not sign the document.

Fadhlina did not disclose the figures requested or whether disciplinary action would be taken. - FMT