Perak education committee chairman Khairudin Abu Hanipah has stated that the 15-year-old student who was bullied at a secondary school in Gunung Rapat will be given the necessary time and space to prepare before returning to class. He expressed understanding if the victim is traumatized by the incident and worried about going back to school. The student can return to school as normal, but it ultimately depends on whether the parents consent to sending their child back. Khairudin made these comments during the opening of a book fair at AEON Mall Ipoh Klebang on August 4.
Khairudin also added that parents might feel it is unsafe for their child to return to school following the incident. He assured that the school has followed the standard operating procedures to prevent such incidents from recurring. The victim, originally from Kuala Lumpur, was allegedly hit and kicked by a senior student two years older on July 24. He sustained a soft tissue injury to the left side of his face and received medical treatment at Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun as an outpatient. A police investigation is currently ongoing.
Khairudin acknowledged that incidents of bullying in schools are not uncommon. However, their seriousness may vary, and it is important for schools to handle such matters appropriately. Standard operating procedures, including warnings, punishments such as suspension or expulsion, are in place to address bullying cases. The state Education Department takes bullying seriously and is committed to taking action within the established guidelines. Khairudin emphasized that schools, teachers, and parents all have crucial roles to play in addressing bullying incidents. Parents should actively check on their children, as some victims may be quiet individuals, increasing their vulnerability to bullying and potential injuries.
On a separate note, Khairudin revealed that there have been 45 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in the state. These cases involve 18 preschoolers and 27 primary school pupils in five districts: Kinta Utara; Kinta Selatan; Larut, Matang and Selama; Muallim; and Kerian. He assured that the situation is under control, and the affected schools have taken necessary measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
