NIBONG TEBAL: The Education Ministry has called on all schools to enhance advocacy for sexual harassment guidelines so students who are victims do not fear coming forward to lodge complaints.
Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the guidelines had been issued and she hoped all parties would follow and adhere to them.
"We have repeatedly mentioned that we will not compromise on sexual harassment cases.
"Schools are safe places, and we want to ensure that the entire school ecosystem supports the safety of children.
"So I reiterate that the guidelines on sexual harassment, including addressing this issue in educational institutions under the ministry, have been released, and we request all parties to take full responsibility for these guidelines," she told newsmen here today.
She was met at the launch of the 'Karnival Pendidikan Madani' and 'Program KV Insani Masyarakat Madani' at SK Sungai Bakap here today.
She was asked on allegations that sexual harassment cases involving students were still occurring, but the victims were afraid to report the incidents.
Elaborating, Fadhlina said the ministry would ensure complaints made by students are handled in the proper manner.
"We will ensure that every complaint is addressed with full integrity and high professionalism.
"Therefore, victims do not need to fear or hesitate to come forward and report the incident because we are committed to protecting their safety.
"We believe that by continuing this advocacy, more affected students will feel empowered to speak out, while schools are urged to remain vigilant and take immediate action when there are complaints regarding sexual harassment," she added.
This, Fadhlina said, would in turn build trust among students and parents regarding school safety.