Hold parents accountable for school misconduct, says education expert

THE government has been urged to consider legal action against parents of students who engage in misconduct or aggressive behaviour in schools, as part of a broader strategy to curb the moral decline and disciplinary issues among youth.

Dr Anuar Ahmad, an education expert from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), said that holding parents legally accountable would ensure they take full responsibility for their children's behaviour instead of relying solely on schools.

“When we speak of misconduct, character and moral values in the context of education, it all begins at home—not in schools. Schools are merely support systems for the foundation built within the family,” he told *Sinar Harian*.

“If a child commits a criminal offence, I propose that legal action also be taken against the parents. It should not be the child alone who is punished. Parents must also be charged for neglecting their responsibility towards the children under their care,” he added.

His comments come in the wake of a government proposal to raise the minimum age for social media usage from 13 to 16 years old, a move announced by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. The plan also includes requiring official government document verification for user registration.

Dr Anuar supports the proposal, noting that extensive research has shown the strong influence of social media on student behaviour and misconduct.

While acknowledging that such a move may be unpopular among youth, he stressed that the government must act decisively for the long-term benefit of the younger generation.

“Decisions like this are rarely popular and may spark dissatisfaction, but to ensure our young generation is protected and well-guided, the government must show commitment,” he said.

“I believe, in time, parents will thank the government for its firmness in helping protect their children from the negative influences of social media.”

He further emphasised that beyond laws and policy changes, the government must focus on strengthening family institutions—particularly among impoverished families or those with incapacitated parents.

“If parents are too poor or ill to care for their children, the government must step in and offer support,” he said.

“Children from disadvantaged backgrounds should be given places in boarding schools to keep them away from harmful influences,” Dr Anuar added. - October 21, 2025