There has been a worrying increase in tragic incidents in schools across the country. In August, the nation was shaken by the death of Zara Qairina, a student who reportedly fell to her death following an alleged case of severe bullying. Around a week ago, an SPM student was gang-raped by her seniors, and just yesterday (Tuesday, 14th October), it was reported that another student had been fatally stabbed by her junior.
Reports suggest that the suspect murdered the victim after she rejected his romantic advances. The incident has since sparked widespread discussions among netizens and celebrities alike about how schools are no longer safe spaces for children to learn, and how parents should play a greater role in teaching their children how to manage their emotions, as well as the issue of victim-blaming.
Ceddy Ang
Some have argued that the victim was partly at fault, suggesting she should have rejected the suspect more gently. However, content creator and host Ceddy Ang refuted this justification, stating that the suspect should have handled the rejection more responsibly.
“How do some people end up blaming the victim? Rest in peace,” he wrote before adding that the focus should also be on the fact that the suspect was armed with multiple weapons and held his victim hostage, rather than how she rejected his advances.
Intan Najuwa
Actress Intan Najuwa, who is also a mother, expressed her concern over the tragic incident. “How can a child bring a weapon to school without anyone noticing? It shows how vital it is for us to stay aware, to listen, and to always remind our children about empathy, kindness, and consequences. This tragedy reminds us how crucial a parent’s role is at home — to educate, guide, and, most importantly, pay attention,” she wrote.
Shila Amzah
Singer Shila Amzah took to Threads to urge the government and authorities to take immediate and effective action to prevent such tragedies from happening again, stressing that schools should always remain safe spaces for both students and teachers. “What is happening to our kids? Schools should always be safe for both students and teachers. Please don’t make this about politics — let’s be real. To those in charge, PLEASE DO SOMETHING. These kids are our future; what is happening now is beyond frightening. I URGE prompt action, for the sake of our nation and society,” she wrote.
Syed Saddiq
Politician Syed Saddiq spoke in Parliament about the recent crimes that have occurred in Malaysian schools. The Muar MP suggested that CCTV cameras be installed around school premises as a safety measure, in the hope of minimising potential threats by ensuring perpetrators are caught on film. In addition, he urged the government to take a firm stance in implementing the ‘you touch, you go’ policy as a strict measure against any form of misconduct involving students.
“We need to investigate, and we need to have the courage to dismantle the support system that enables bullies. I only have one question: show me one piece of evidence — which enforcement officer, which warden, which principal — has ever been held accountable? Usually, there is none. If someone is raped, killed, or bullied, the name of the school doesn’t matter. What matters are the safety and lives of our children,” he said.
Elfira Loy
Actress Elfira Loy took to Threads to express her concern about her children’s future. She noted that parents are already under immense pressure when it comes to choosing the right school for their children, but with the recent incidents, they now also have to worry about their safety. “If kids can get hurt from fighting in kindergarten, imagine what it would be like once they’re older. It’s so frustrating. I just hope things will get better and our kids will be safe. That’s all we want as parents,” she said.
