KUALA LUMPUR: The Selangor government will strengthen safety measures for schoolchildren following the tragic death of 16-year-old Yap Shing Xuen, says Anfaal Saari.
The state women empowerment and welfare committee chairman said the matter was discussed and agreed upon during the Selangor executive council meeting earlier on Friday (Oct 17).
“The state will work closely with the Education Department, police, and health authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of children not only in terms of education, but also mental health and welfare,” she said when met at Nirvana Centre KL on Friday.
Anfaal said the tragedy had deeply affected many schools and communities, calling it a national concern that must be addressed collectively to prevent similar incidents.
“One of the key steps is to create safe spaces for children, starting at home. Parents must provide an environment where children feel comfortable to share their worries or emotional struggles,” she said.
She added that the state was also concerned about the influence of social media and violent online games, which could trigger aggressive behaviour and affect students’ mental well-being.
“In the coming weeks, especially at SMK Bandar Utama 4, the state government will hold a solidarity event to assure parents and the school community that we stand with them,” Anfaal said.
She said the Selangor health committee, together with the state secretary’s office, would coordinate psychosocial support and counselling services for students, teachers and parents affected by the tragedy.
“According to records, although the school has more than 1,000 students, only about 300 have returned since the incident. This shows the level of trauma and fear among students and parents,” she said.
Anfaal said many educators were also emotionally affected, with the school principal moved to tears during a recent meeting, apologising and pledging to improve safety measures.
Under the Selangor Penyayang initiative, counsellors will be deployed to offer psychosocial assistance to students and parents. The programme will work with the State Education Department to ensure proper channels and safe spaces are in place for emotional healing and recovery, she added.
