Cuepacs president Adnan Mat said the incident must be taken seriously as schools should remain safe from harm.

“There must be no compromise when it involves the lives of students. We urge the education ministry to strengthen safety procedures, prioritise maintenance, and ensure that the school environment is free from hazards,” he said in a statement today.

The nine-year–old pupil was reported to have died after falling into a sewer pit at a primary school in Lenggeng, Negeri Sembilan.

Police said the boy fell into the pit, which was uncovered, during the school’s sports day at 9.20am.

Adnan suggested that the ministry engage experts from agencies such as the occupational safety and health department, and the Malaysian Society for Occupational Safety and Health to ensure schools comply with safety standards.

He said comprehensive and systematic measures must be implemented immediately, including identifying high-risk areas and taking preventive action.

Education minister Fadhlina Sidek had pledged strict action in the event of non-compliance with SOPs following the boy’s death.

She said her ministry has launched an investigation, adding that there will be no compromise when it comes to the safety and wellbeing of all members of educational institutions.