Caning alone will not solve the problem

THE recent gang rape case involving school students in Melaka has reignited calls to reinstate caning in schools. While discipline is crucial, corporal punishment alone cannot address the deeper causes of such disturbing behaviour.

The real issue begins at home. When parental supervision, moral guidance, and emotional support are lacking, children grow up without empathy or respect for others. Exposure to explicit online content, peer influence, and the absence of strong role models further worsen the situation.