Stakeholders call for more comprehensive approach amid new dangers
PETALING JAYA: With rising cases of sexual misconduct and online exploitation, experts and parents are calling for a more robust sex education framework and closer school-family collaboration.
Voice of the Children chairman Sharmila Sekaran said early intervention in school-based sex education is important.
“Sex education in formal education must start early, especially considering the high dropout rates in secondary schools,” she said.
Sharmila added that while sex and reproductive health (SRH) education is included in the school curriculum, its delivery and quality remain inconsistent and insufficient.
“When asked, the Education Ministry will say that SRH education exists. But if you speak to students, many say they’ve never learnt about it.
“The real issue is not whether such education is included, but rather the quality of the syllabus and how it is taught,” she said.
Melaka Action Group for Parents in Education chairman Mak Chee Kin said sex education is increasingly critical given the rise in sex-related misconduct facilitated by digital platforms and artificial intelligence.
“In today’s digital world, sexual wrongdoing has evolved beyond physical contact. No parent wants their child to become a victim,” he said.
Mak added that a more comprehensive sex education syllabus is needed.
“Children should be educated on the dangers of becoming a victim, and only trained teachers should be allowed to handle this subject.
“Schools must regularly invite subject-matter experts and NGOs to engage with students,” he said.
Parent Action Group for Education chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said sex education is no longer a taboo subject among parents.
“More and more parents now realise it is necessary, although many feel ill-equipped to handle the topic effectively at home. There are experts who can guide parents,” she said.
Juliana Ooi, a sex education trainer at X Ed Malaysia, said more parents are becoming open to the topic, though many are unsure how to approach it.
Some worry about religious sensitivities or fear it might encourage sexual activity.
“There’s a need for parents to first be sex-educated themselves, using frameworks like the International Technical Guidance on Sexuality Education.
“That way, they can provide meaningful input based on their parenting style and experiences,” she said.
Ooi also stressed the importance of a balanced approach, where schools and parents collaboratively contribute – schools deliver a comprehensive sex education curriculum, and parents follow up at home.
