KUCHING, Nov 23: A total of 37 police reports have been made on bomb threats in schools all around the nation, involving 28 international schools, seven private schools, and two public schools as of 2pm on Nov 22, says Dr Kelvin Yii.
The Bandar Kuching MP noted in a statement that he has submitted an emergency motion under Standing Order 18(1) to the Parliament Speaker for approval to have an emergency debate on the recent spate of bomb threats emailed to schools nationwide.
“Even though security flushes were performed by the Royal Malaysia Police at all the affected schools and no evidence of any explosives were detected, this issue cannot be taken lightly because it does not only involve the safety and security of our students, teachers, and staff, but more importantly, this is also a threat to our national security.
“That is why the Police Department and all relevant authorities to (sic) take all necessary actions and conduct a thorough investigation on this matter to trace and detect the source of all these threats.
“The fullest weight of the law must come upon these irresponsible quarters who threaten the safety and security of children,” he stated.
Dr Yii expressed his hope that the motion will prompt the Ministry of Education to brief MPs on their procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) in the event of such threats, as well as tighten and improve such SOPs if necessary to adapt to the current situation.
“On top of that, it is also important for the Police Department and relevant authorities to do all necessary investigation and allay the concerns of the students and parents of their safety and security in schools.
“We do not want to create any unnecessary panic and disrupt our children’s education in the process.
“Additional steps will continue to be taken to ensure the safety and security of the students.”
Dr Yii further remarked that such an act is highly irresponsible because schools are supposed to be the safest place for students to learn and grow, and not only is the act disruptive to the classes the students have to attend, but any act aimed at the safety and security of children is despicable.
“That is why I urge for all hands on deck in order for us to get to the bottom of such threats and work closely as a society to make sure our young ones are protected.
“I also encourage members of the public to not spread or create unverified rumours that may cause unnecessary panic during this time and allow the authorities to do all that is necessary,” he added. — DayakDaily
