Dewan Rakyat focuses on student safety and influenza outbreaks in schools

THE safety of students in schools and the recent spike in influenza cases within educational institutions took centre stage in today’s Dewan Rakyat proceedings.

According to the official Parliament agenda, Suhaizan Kaiat (PH–Pulai) pressed the Health Minister to clarify the seriousness of influenza outbreaks nationwide and their impact on educational institutions during the Minister’s Question Time.

He further sought to know what actions the Ministry of Health is taking to address the issue, noting that infections have already spread across a range of institutions — from preschools to universities.

At the same session, Salamiah Mohd Nor (PN–Temerloh) posed a question to the Education Minister regarding immediate and comprehensive measures taken or planned to prevent tragic incidents such as the reported case of a student being raped in a classroom.

She queried the steps implemented to improve physical security in schools, teacher supervision, the establishment of an effective complaints mechanism, and the provision of psychosocial and legal support for victims.

During the oral question session, Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN–Kota Bharu) also urged the Home Minister to outline firm government measures to combat the worrying rise in online fraud.

Onn Abu Bakar (PH–Batu Pahat) questioned the Transport Minister on the financial performance of Prasarana Malaysia Berhad, the operator of Malaysia’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, and asked about government subsidies provided to ensure continued operations without burdening commuters.

Meanwhile, Mohamad Shafizan Kepli (GPS–Batang Lupar) sought answers from the Housing and Local Government Minister on strategies to control and reduce the population of stray dogs, which pose a threat to public safety — particularly children.

The sitting then proceeded with the fourth day of debate on the Supply Bill (Budget 2026), following its tabling by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last Friday.

According to the Dewan Rakyat calendar, the Policy Stage debate is scheduled to run from 13 to 28 October, while the Committee Stage debate will take place from 5 to 27 November.

The Third Meeting of the Fourth Session of the 15th Parliament will sit for 35 days, concluding on 4 December. - October 16, 2025