KUALA LUMPUR – A second reported school stabbing within a relatively short period has exposed gaps in school security, prompting renewed calls for an immediate review of safety measures to prevent similar incidents.
Parent Action Group for Education (PAGE) chairperson Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said while most schools in Malaysia remain safe, the latest incident should not be dismissed as an isolated case.
"This second stabbing is a serious warning that school violence cannot be treated as isolated incidents. While most Malaysian schools remain safe, stronger prevention, early intervention and consistent safety measures are urgently needed," she said.
Noor Azimah said the incident highlighted weaknesses in existing security measures, particularly in preventing weapons from being brought onto school grounds.
"This incident suggests gaps in school security. Schools should immediately review entry procedures, supervision, emergency response plans and reporting systems, while strengthening early intervention for at-risk students," she said.
She stressed that enhanced security measures must strike a balance between protecting students and maintaining a conducive learning environment.
"Reasonable security measures such as controlled entry points and risk-based bag inspections may be appropriate, but schools should avoid creating a prison-like environment. Security must be balanced with trust and student wellbeing," she said.
At the same time, Noor Azimah said tackling school violence requires more than physical security measures, as such incidents are often driven by multiple underlying factors.
"Violence is rarely caused by one factor. Bullying, emotional distress, family issues and mental health can all contribute. The priority should be identifying and supporting vulnerable students before problems escalate," she said.
She acknowledged that the Education Ministry had introduced several initiatives following the previous fatal school stabbing but said implementation must be strengthened.
"The ministry introduced positive initiatives after the previous tragedy, but this latest incident suggests implementation has not been consistent across all schools. Policies must be followed through effectively," she said.
Noor Azimah also called for greater support for teachers, saying they are often the first to detect changes in students' behaviour but need better training and clearer support systems.
"Teachers are often the first to notice warning signs but need more training, clearer referral pathways and stronger support from school counsellors. They cannot do this alone," she said.
She added that parents also have an important role in preventing violence, stressing that close collaboration between schools and families is essential to identify concerns before they escalate.
"Parents are key partners in prevention. Strong communication between schools and families is essential so concerns can be identified early and addressed together," she said.
Looking ahead, Noor Azimah said PAGE's priorities are strengthening the early identification and intervention of at-risk students, implementing consistent school safety standards and regular safety audits, and fostering stronger partnerships between schools, parents and counselors to keep students safe.
The latest incident involved a 15-year-old Form Three student who was allegedly stabbed by a fellow student at a secondary school in Banting on Tuesday morning.
The victim was reportedly attacked at about 9.30am after buying bread during recess. She is believed to have suffered multiple stab wounds to the front and back of her body, with her father claiming she sustained between 14 and 16 stab wounds, as well as injuries to her face, lips and ears.
She was rushed to Banting Hospital for treatment and underwent surgery. Although her condition has stabilised, it was reported that she remains deeply traumatised by the attack.
Meanwhile, it was reported that the 15-year-old suspect allegedly entered the school through the main entrance before carrying out the assault. He had reportedly been absent from school for several months and was undergoing medical treatment.
The suspect has since been remanded by the Telok Datok Magistrate's Court to assist investigations. His legal aid lawyer later confirmed he is a person with autism.
The Selangor Education Department said the suspect had been arrested, while police investigations are ongoing. - July 9, 2026
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