JOHOR BARU: Johor Umno Youth has urged the government and stakeholders to take immediate action to address what it described as a “systemic failure” in the national education system following a recent string of serious crimes in schools.
Its chief Noor Azleen Ambros said the wing was deeply saddened and disappointed by the disturbing incidents, which included cases of rape and murder involving students on school grounds.
“It is unimaginable that such heinous crimes could occur within schools — places that are supposed to be the safest zones for our children,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 14).
He said Johor Umno Youth has full confidence in the police to conduct thorough investigations and bring those responsible to justice.
“At the same time, we express our deepest sympathies and condolences to the victim and her family. May they be granted strength and patience in facing such a heavy loss,” he said.
Noor Azleen said the series of violent crimes in schools should serve as a wake-up call for society, as it reflected a growing social problem that threatens even the country’s most protected environments.
“These incidents reflect a worrying social epidemic — as though schools, once seen as safe havens, are no longer free from danger,” he said.
He added that the situation pointed to a systemic failure that must be addressed urgently, warning that the education system, which should educate and protect future generations, has now been tainted by elements of serious crime and moral decay.
“This is not the time to point fingers or lay blame. Instead, it is time for society to unite, act, and show genuine care and concern for one another,” he added.
Noor Azleen stressed that ensuring student safety in schools requires collective responsibility involving the Education Ministry, teachers, parents, and relevant agencies such as the Social Welfare Department, police, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
He urged all parties to take the issue seriously and work together to restore schools as safe spaces, not only physically, but also morally and emotionally.
“Schools must once again be sanctuaries for learning and growth where children feel secure and protected,” he said.
