The coalition’s education committee said the ministry had yet to act on resolving the matter and demanded it do so immediately before the new school year begins.

“The PH education committee has noted that the issue of heavy school bags raised almost a month ago has yet to be resolved by the education ministry.

“Although education and health experts have raised concerns, given their opinions and suggested immediate action, the ministry has not acted,” it said in a statement today.

The committee said it was concerned for the wellbeing of students as the longer the issue persisted, the more likely long-term harm could be suffered by students.

Those who signed the statement included former education minister Maszlee Malik and his former deputy, Teo Nie Ching.

FMT previously reported a Form 5 student, Nurul Hanim Fazwin, 17, who had to undergo corrective surgery after she developed an “S” spine. The problem was linked to the student carrying heavy school bags.

Maszlee and the National Union of the Teaching Profession are among those who have spoken out on the issue, suggesting the use of e-books, making the school curriculum more digital-friendly or providing students with lockers.