MMHA president Dr Andrew Mohanraj said while the recent fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old student in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, has prompted calls for stronger disciplinary measures in schools, corporal punishment risks doing more harm than good.
Mohanraj, a consultant psychiatrist, said true discipline involves guiding young people to understand the consequences of their actions and develop internal self-control, empathy and moral reasoning.
“These qualities cannot be nurtured through fear or force. Discipline should never be equated with punishment,” he said in a statement.
“A safe and compassionate school is one where discipline is firm but fair, and where emotional wellbeing is prioritised alongside academic achievements.
“Physical punishment may produce short-term compliance but often leads to long-term emotional and behavioural consequences.
“Children who experience physical punishment are more likely to develop aggression, anxiety, low self-esteem and defiant behaviour – the very problems we hope to prevent.”
A 14-year-old student was on Wednesday charged with the murder of a 16-year-old schoolmate at SMK Bandar Utama Damansara (4) on Oct 14.
The murder prompted the education ministry and Selangor state government to announce a slew of measures to enhance safety and address disciplinary issues, including additional funds for CCTVs and enhanced mental health screening for students.
In the statement, Mohanraj noted that children are currently raised in complex social and digital environments where they often grapple with family stress, academic pressure, social media influence and emotional distress.
He said responding to such challenges with physical punishment only deepens fear and resentment, rather than fostering respect or moral understanding.
Instead of punitive measures, schools should focus on strengthening their mental health and counselling support systems, he said.
He said every school should have access to counsellors or trained teachers who can identify early signs of distress, behavioural issues or potential violence.
“Teachers also need training in positive discipline, conflict resolution and emotional regulation — approaches that build empathy and accountability rather than fear.
“Discipline begins at home and parents play a crucial role in shaping a child’s values, behaviour and emotional control.
“It is neither fair nor realistic to expect teachers to shoulder the full responsibility for children’s conduct when parental guidance, consistency and communication are the foundations of good discipline.”
Under the Education (School Discipline) Regulations, students can only be caned by principals and designated teachers. It is usually for serious offences like bullying.
Students cannot be caned in front of others or during assemblies, as outlined in a 2003 education ministry circular. The circular also forbids the caning of girls.