PETALING JAYA: The Johor Education Department says it will not compromise on any sexual misconduct at educational institutions under its purview, following allegations that a primary school teacher molested a Year Six pupil.
In a statement on Friday (May 22), the department confirmed that several police reports have been lodged, including one by the school involved.
It also said the teacher in question has been remanded to assist in investigations.
"The department calls on the police to conduct a professional and comprehensive investigation so that legal action can be taken if the individual is found culpable," the statement read.
Pending the outcome of investigations, it said the teacher will be placed at the district education office.
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"We are also working closely with the Social Welfare Department to ensure that students who may have been affected are protected, and that their wellbeing is safeguarded.
"Strict action will be taken against perpetrators of such acts," it said.
The deparrment also urged anyone who has lodged a police report alleging sexual misconduct not to withdraw it so that the authorities can investigate and take action.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek also addressed the matter in a Facebook post on Friday, saying the case had been handed over to the police while the ministry’s internal investigation is ongoing.
“The public is urged to come forward to report cases related to sexual offences to authorities.
"The authorities must take immediate action to investigate when complaints involve child victims.
"Take joint responsibility as members of society (as it is) the responsibility of all parties to continue to protect children," she said.
The statements came after police arrested a 28-year-old local man to assist in investigations into an alleged molestation case involving a female primary school pupil in Seri Alam.
Johor acting police chief Deputy Comm Hoo Chuan Huat said the arrest was made following a viral Facebook post on Thursday (May 21) and a police report lodged by the victim’s mother later that night.
The case is being investigated under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017.
