Fadhlina yesterday said her ministry would immediately implement reforms in five key areas in light of recent criminal incidents involving students​, which include gang rape and bullying.

In a Facebook post, Nik Nazmi, the former natural resources and environmental sustainability minister, said the ministry’s five-point approach only addresses the symptoms of such incidents.

“Rushing to announce new plans or slogans only shows that we have yet to understand the root cause of this crisis.

“The real problem is not merely the lack of policies or circulars, but a culture and system that fails to support teachers and students,” he said.

Fadhlina yesterday said that while the ministry already has a “safe school” framework, immediate reforms in five key areas are now under way to make the framework more effective.

The five key areas are mental health, reproductive and social education to prevent sexual violence, child protection, teacher care, and student voices.

She also said her ministry has ordered schools to conduct mental health screenings for students twice a year, adding that character building will form the core of the new curriculum in 2027 – starting with preschools next year.

In his statement, Nik Nazmi said a recent warning by education director-general Azam Ahmad for schools not to cover up bullying and sexual misconduct is a sign that the education system has failed to provide a safe space for school communities to speak up without fear.

Nik Nazmi said Fadhlina must listen to the voices from the ground and understand the realities faced by teachers.

While he did not elaborate, Nik Nazmi also said Fadhlina should defend those working to improve student safety, not “undermine them for political convenience”.

“It is time to rebuild an education ecosystem based on trust in teachers, student safety and human values,” he said.

“Ultimately, the minister must be held accountable – not the officers, not the teachers. Accountability cannot be delegated.”