Fadhlina: No compromise on bullying, immorality and racial segregation in schools

Fadhlina with students from SMK Tunku Abdul Rahman during a character building programme in Nibong Tebal.

NIBONG TEBAL: There will be zero tolerance for bullying, sexual misconduct and racial segregation in schools, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

This will not happen on her watch in any school in the country, she added.

"While we have already put certain rules and regulations in place to curb bullying and sexual misconduct, there are people who say the ministry practises segregation," she said at a townhall session with about 300 students during a character-building session here on Thursday (Aug 10).

"To these people, I would like to say that our education system is moving towards a goal of 'no one left behind' and no segregation will be practised where race or academic excellence are concerned.

"We will give (everyone) room to grow and explore the abilities of every student, even drop-outs, (to see) how they may excel in education.

"There is no discrimination in education as we even cater to those in correctional facilities and ensure they have a decent education (so that they can) live a life like others.

"This includes those without proper citizenship documents or who are involved in illegal and antisocial activities," she said.

The minister urged every student to build their lives on the principles of the Rukun Negara.

Later, Fadhlina told reporters a new type of school targeted specifically at students from hardcore poor families will be built in rural areas.

"The exact model of such a school is being discussed at the ministry level and the criteria will be determined once (discussions) conclude," she added.

Meanwhile Fadhlina said she was confident Pakatan Harapan candidate Norhidayah Che Ros would win the Sungai Bakap state seat in Penang on Saturday (Aug 12).

"We are looking at a thumping majority," she added.

Norhidayah is up against Perikatan Nasional's Nor Zamri Latiff.