TAWAU: The scope of duty for School Liaison Officers (PPS) appointed by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in collaboration with the Education Ministry (KPM) should be expanded beyond school gates to curb gangsterism and student violence.
Youth, Sports and Creative Economy Development Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said this drastic measure is highly necessary following recent bullying, misconduct, and brawls outside school premises involving students.
The proposal aims to close existing gaps and prevent students from engaging in physical bullying or gangsterism outside the supervision of teachers, following the arrests of 10 male students in Merotai Besar for rioting and a female student in Banting, Selangor, for stabbing her schoolmate.
Nizam urged active cooperation from local communities and Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBG) rather than leaving responsibility solely to the police, advising them to report or counsel students when they notice unusual behaviour outside schools.
He also called on non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including youth groups, to aggressively raise awareness and collaborate with schools to promote healthy lifestyles, emphasising collective action over finger-pointing.
