KUCHING: The Sarawak Teachers Union (STU) has urged the Ministry of Education (MOE) to hold immediate face-to-face discussions with teachers’ union leaders nationwide.
STU president Kullin Djayang said such a meeting would help find solutions to address student disciplinary problems, teachers’ fears and uncertainties, and to strengthen safety measures in schools.
“This is because teachers unions serve as a platform that can represent the voices of teachers on the ground, who are also the frontliners in implementing the MOE’s responsibilities.
“While we do not dismiss the views of education experts, as a teachers’ union we feel compelled to be directly involved in addressing this situation, which has truly alarmed all parties concerning student discipline and school safety,” he said in a statement.
Kullin said recent incidents highlighted the urgent need to reinforce mental health, moral values, and humanity within the education system.
He also urged MOE to protect teachers from legal action, following a recent case where a teacher was charged for caning a student.
“Stand firmly with teachers under the existing circulars, and restore the image of teachers from the community’s negative perceptions,” he said.
STU further reminded that teachers should not be hastily blamed for unforeseen incidents of this nature.
“Teachers involved, whether directly or indirectly, must be given moral support, counseling, and proper protection so they can carry out their duties comfortably and without fear, ensuring student discipline and safety are better safeguarded,” he said.
He said the teachers union believes that preventing student violence also requires close cooperation between schools, parents, and the community.
“Parents must be more attentive to the emotional and social changes in their children, while the community should work together with schools to create a safe, caring, and humane environment.
“Parents should not take advantage of such situations for personal agendas. Teachers intentions are to educate, not to torture, bully, or harm their students. They deserve appreciation,” he said.
Kullin also expressed condolences to the families affected by recent student-related tragedies, including sexual assault and a fatal stabbing incident.
“The entire STU community is deeply saddened by these tragedies. We will continue to support all efforts to reform and strengthen school safety so such incidents never happen again,” he said.
