By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 23: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is supportive of caning being reintroduced in schools, but only under strict guidelines and regulations.
In a TVS news, he said the measure is important to address worsening disciplinary problems among students, provided it is implemented in a controlled and non-abusive manner.
“I support the idea of bringing it back, but with firm restrictions. Caning should be limited to the hand and not carried out arbitrarily.
“I was once a teacher and have caned students before, but only lightly on the hand and not to cause harm,” he said during a Dewan Rakyat session today.
Anwar was responding to a supplementary question from R.S.N Rayer (Pakatan Harapan–Jelutong), who asked whether the government would consider reinstating corporal punishment in schools.
He acknowledged that the issue has sparked differing opinions, including from human rights groups who view caning as a form of child abuse.
“Many educators and parents still believe this form of discipline is necessary, but there must be clear rules, such as who is authorised to administer it, the type of cane used, and the maximum number of strokes permitted.
“I don’t think parents should be overly concerned, as a little mischief is normal among children, but if their behaviour becomes excessive, disciplinary action is warranted,” he said.
However, Anwar stressed that his stance reflects a personal view and not the government’s current policy.
“This matter should be thoroughly reviewed by the Ministry of Education in consultation with relevant stakeholders before any decision is made,” he said.
In response to another question about the government’s move to restrict mobile phone use among students under 16, Anwar clarified that the limitation would apply only to social media usage in schools.
“It’s not a total ban on mobile phones, but a restriction on social media use and related activities within school grounds,” he clarified. — DayakDaily
