Education Minister and deputy take full responsibility for school tragedies

PETALING JAYA: Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek expressed deep sorrow over recent tragedies involving schoolchildren and said she and her deputy will take full responsibility.

She said she was devastated and urged teachers to remain strong as her ministry moves to improve safety across all schools.

“Only God knows how (we) feel. My heart breaks seeing teachers in sorrow and distress over these tragedies.

“My deputy minister, Wong Kah Woh, and I would take full responsibility and work to ensure better safety and welfare for the school community,” she said in a Facebook post on Saturday (Oct 18).

Fadhlina added that the ministry would enhance safety measures in all institutions under its purview as part of ongoing school safety and well-being reforms.

“We will continue to pray and work hard to do our best in educating and ensuring that our students and school communities remain safe and well.

“To our beloved teachers, be patient, stay strong and continue fulfilling our educational duty. We will honour our commitments,” she said.

She also thanked parents and parent-teacher associations for their continued support and providing psychosocial support initiatives during this difficult time.

“Your attention and cooperation are vital for rebuilding our schools’ strength and spirit,” she said.