PUTRAJAYA: The Education Ministry says it is implementing early psychosocial intervention to help teachers and students cope with the trauma following the recent murder of a 16-year-old schoolgirl at SMK Bandar Utama 4 in Petaling Jaya.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the situation for teachers at the school is particularly concerning as many are experiencing grief, sadness and self-blame – factors that could negatively affect the entire school ecosystem if not addressed promptly.
"This teacher care and support training is very important. These teachers still need psychosocial support. On the first day of school, we mobilised 50 psychosocial experts solely to focus on the school.
"On the second and third days, only about 200 students attended out of more than 1,000, but today, more than 800 students attended. This is largely due to the early intervention measures we implemented from day one," she said during a meeting with senior media editors here on Thursday (Oct 23).
Fadhlina said the ministry has enhanced the 'Teacher Care and Support' training under its immediate reform framework by introducing new trauma-preparedness components to help teachers and school staff respond effectively to crises.
"In the immediate reform, teacher care and support have evolved in terms of approach and preparation. It is no longer a simple fire drill. This is a comprehensive training that prepares teachers to act, barricade, and call when faced with emergencies," she explained.
Fadhlina said trauma experienced by teachers could directly affect the quality of education delivered to students, making comprehensive psychosocial support a critical element in sustaining the school ecosystem.
"That is why the aspect of comprehensive support is very critical," she said.
Teacher Care and Support is among the five main focuses of the Education Ministry's immediate reform framework, along with the strengthening of mental health education programmes, reproductive and social health education, child protection policies and the strengthening of student voices.
"I want to emphasise the importance of student voice in this reform. This is something often overlooked, but this time, we must listen to our children...what they want and what they need," she said.
Fadlina said that during her visit to the schools, she took time to directly engage with students.
"Even if it's just for a short while, we must answer their questions and address their concerns. If there's no counsellor or adult available to respond, their thoughts may spiral," she said.
In the incident on Oct 14, a 16-year-old female student was stabbed to death allegedly by a 14-year-old male schoolmate in the girls' toilet. – Bernama
