UNICEF Malaysia expresses deep concern over recent reports of violent incidents involving students in schools, including acts of sexual and physical violence that have caused deep harm and loss of life.
We commend the swift response of Malaysian authorities and the support extended to victims, survivors, and their families. No child should ever feel unsafe, particularly in a place of learning.
UNICEF has consistently maintained that prevention must be at the heart of all efforts.
We call for the design of violence prevention programs, strengthened support for parents and caregivers, effective reporting and response mechanisms, and safe schools and communities.
The circulation of videos, images, and personal details of children on social media risks compounding trauma and violating children’s rights to privacy and protection.
The mental health and psychosocial well-being of survivors, families, peers, and educators must be prioritised.
UNICEF calls for safety and confidentiality during investigations, responsible reporting, and the creation of safe environments that prevent violence before it happens.
Girls are disproportionately affected by violence. Globally, nearly one in three women and girls worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime — driven by harmful gender and social norms that normalise abuse, shift blame away from perpetrators, and silence survivors.
Such violence inflicts devastating and long-lasting harm on children’s physical and mental well-being and erodes trust in the institutions meant to protect them.
UNICEF stands ready to work with the government of Malaysia, civil society, media, and communities to strengthen prevention and response systems, including those addressing gender-based violence and online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Together, we must uphold the rights, dignity, and protection of every child
Robert Gass is the UNICEF Representative in Malaysia.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Ova.
