Malaysia looks at tightening security in schools after fatal stabbing of teen

Malaysia's Education Ministry is considering tighter security measures, including spot checks of students in schools, following the fatal stabbing of a teenage girl at a secondary school in Selangor state on Oct 14.

- Hazlin Hassan Malaysia Correspondent and Muzliza Mustafa Malaysia Correspondent

The killing, yet another in a string of violent incidents in schools in recent months, has sent shockwaves across the nation and underscores the urgent need to improve student safety and mental health support in schools.

Education director-general Azam Ahmad said at a press conference on Oct 14 that the incident was “a stern wake-up call” for the ministry to strengthen its efforts.

He added: “We are working closely with the Royal Malaysia Police to step up monitoring in all schools. Additional security measures will be announced soon to ensure that schools are truly safe for students.”

A special committee to investigate the case “thoroughly, transparently and fairly” has also been set up.

Meanwhile, school administrators involved in the case have been temporarily transferred to the district education office pending the outcome of investigations.

The victim, a 16-year-old female student at SMK Bandar Utama Damansara 4, was fatally stabbed by a 14-year-old male schoolmate in the school compound at around 9.10am on Oct 14, according to police.

Petaling Jaya district police chief Shamsudin Mamat said the girl sustained multiple stab wounds and died at the scene.

“We confirm a murder has taken place in the school compound involving a 16-year-old female student,” he told reporters.