Only head teachers and authorized teachers are allowed to cane students

The Minister of Education, Fadhlina Sidek, emphasized that existing legal provisions do not grant parents or the public the authority to take physical action against students who commit offences, including caning.

Fadhlina clarified that caning must not be conducted in public or during school assemblies, as detailed in Circular Letter No. 7/2003 on Teachers’ Authority to Cane Students. Additionally, it must not be imposed on female students.

“Caning is one of the disciplinary measures that may be applied to students committing serious offences, including bullying. However, this punishment is not intended as abuse but as an educational method aimed at guiding and disciplining students to help them understand the consequences of their actions.

“Caning may only be carried out under established guidelines and by authorized personnel.

“The Ministry of Education (MOE) also emphasizes that constructive educational approaches, such as counseling and instilling moral values, are more effective in shaping students with good character and integrity,” she stated in a written reply at the Dewan Rakyat.

She was responding to a question from Dr. Abd Ghani Ahmad (PN-Jerlun) regarding whether the ministry was prepared to allow the guardians of bullied students to cane the bullies during school assemblies.

Elaborating further, Fadhlina said that the MOE believes the most effective approach to handling student discipline issues is to strengthen communication between schools and parents.

“The MOE continuously strives to ensure that the implementation of school discipline aligns with educational policies that prioritize character development and integrity.

“All parties are urged to work together to ensure a safe, conducive, and harmonious school environment to foster a disciplined and responsible generation,” she said.