Noor Aziah Mohd Awal said the toxic culture of teachers covering up for one another following reports of “period spot checks” in schools was also causing stress and disbelief among parents.

“Action must be taken against teachers who harass students brave enough to stand up for their rights. It is tainting the image of this noble profession,” she said in a statement.

Noor Aziah was commenting on the issue of a female student who alleged on video-sharing platform TikTok that her male teacher had made rape jokes in class.

Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam, 17, said this happened when the teacher was discussing sexual harassment during a physical education and health class at her school.

After her post went viral, several of those who posted comments, including some believed to be teachers themselves, made lewd comments about Ain Husniza’s body. She has demanded an apology from them.

Noor Aziah said teachers play an important role in realising the vision of the Education Act 1996 that aims to “develop the potential of individuals in a holistic and integrated manner so as to produce individuals who are intellectually, spiritually, emotionally and physically balanced and harmonious, based on a firm belief in and devotion to God”.

She said teachers are role models and must realise that their actions or non-actions will have a long-term impact on students.

She said schools must be safe places for children, and that more measures should be instituted so that children will enjoy their time learning, gaining useful and wholesome education that will last their lifetime.

Noor Aziah reiterated that the function of schools, the training of teachers and the education system should be reviewed to fulfil the ideals of the Education Act.