KUALA LUMPUR:Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) today called on the government to protect the whistleblower teacher, who testified against another teacher who had repeatedly skipped classes.
In a statement, TI-M president Dr Muhammad Mohan said the teacher; Nurhaizah Ejab, must be given full protection.
"TI-M calls on Education Minister Fadlina Sidek to ensure the whistleblower teacher Nurhaizah is given full protection against any form of retaliation or intimidation," he said.
Muhammad said one of the hallmarks of good governance is being truthful, transparent and accountable for one's actions and to protect whistleblowers who very often take risks in speaking the truth and exposing the wrongdoing.
"This government has an opportunity to use this judgement to improve the governance culture within the civil service.
"First, by enforcing the "surcharge" clause against any public servant who is found to have been negligent in performing their duties and abusing their positions.
"Second, by protecting the teacher who was a trial witness from any real or implied harassment and issue a warning that all who harass or threaten witnesses or whistleblowers will be severely dealt with (this is also consistent with the spirit of the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010).
"Last, by making it easier for whistleblowers within the private and public sector to report issues without fear of being reprimanded, harassed or penalised.
"Let's make the prime minister's (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) numerous calls to fight corruption and raise the level of integrity a reality."
He added it was crucial to create a positive culture within the civil service that prioritises accountability and the exposure of all wrongdoing.
"This will send a strong message on the importance of practicing ethics and integrity when performing one's duties."
On July 19, three former students won an unprecedented suit against their English language teacher for failing to show up for class for seven months in 2017.
High Court judge Leonard David Shim made the decision in favour of the three former students of SMK Taun Gusi, Kota Belud — Rusiah Sabdarin, Nur Natasha Allisya Hamali and Calvina Angayung, all 22.
Nurhaizah was listed as a witness against the trio's truant English teacher.