LAHAD DATU: Schools in the district have been urged to strengthen cooperation with the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) through the School Liaison Officer (PPS) programme.
District Police Chief ACP Dzulbaharin Ismail said PPS plays an important role in curbing disciplinary problems, crime and drug abuse among students, but its success depends fully on the commitment of the appointed officers.
“As such, all PPS are advised to follow the implementation guidelines which will indirectly encourage them to carry out their duties more effectively in crime prevention at schools,” he said.
He was speaking during a gathering with 87 PPS in Lahad Datu comprising senior and junior police officers, recently.
Dzulbaharin said the meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between PDRM Lahad Datu and the school community through PPS, while also fostering closer ties to ensure a safe and disciplined school environment.
He said the session also served to identify opportunities to empower PPS as strategic partners of schools in tackling issues of discipline, safety and student character development.
The meeting provides a platform for PPS to share input, suggestions and interventions related to bullying, drug abuse and social problems. It also raises awareness of safety and legal issues, while educating students on self-protection, the law and social responsibility,” he said.
He added that current issues and challenges were discussed, along with data on disciplinary and crime cases involving students, and preventive as well as remedial measures were outlined.
Plans were also made to coordinate proactive programmes such as talks, workshops, patrols, motivational camps and counselling sessions for at-risk students, in addition to establishing effective communication channels between PPS, discipline teachers, counsellors and school administrators.
