Previously, the Ministry of Education had announced the introduction of the Reproductive and Social Health Education (PEERS) module, classifying it as part of health education.
This module is currently being designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
To put it plainly, this is the sex education that Malaysia has long needed and advocated for.
In November, Wanita MCA raised several discussion points that have yet to be addressed, particularly regarding the terminology used in the programme’s title, which avoids the term “sex education”.
Since then, Yeo Bee Yin, as the chairperson of the Women, Children and Community Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC), has highlighted additional concerns regarding Malaysia’s sex education syllabus, especially with respect to underage relationships.
Yeo pointed out that many parents and children are unaware that consensual sex involving individuals under 16 is considered statutory rape under Malaysian law.
This is one of the critical aspects that should be prioritised in the PEERS module syllabus.
To reiterate, sex education is not merely about the physical act; it also covers essential topics such as consent, contraception, sexual rights, and mental health.
The legal aspects should also be integrated into the curriculum to teach young people about appropriate sexual conduct.
Furthermore, the PSC committee has recommended gender-segregated classes for sensitive topics in order to create a more comfortable learning environment.
This call for updated education stems from concerns over rising teenage pregnancies, child marriages, and sexual crimes.
However, Wanita MCA advocates for proper teaching methods over outright segregation. Segregation may unintentionally foster further discrimination and stigma around discussing these topics.
Teaching methods, attitudes, and the development of learning and teaching skills are essential for the success of the PEERS module.
The success of the PEERS module will depend not only on the accuracy of the content but also on how effectively and empathetically teachers can deliver it.
This circles back to education accessibility, where a broader scope of people, including those in rural areas, are also considered for the PEERS module.
The government must address the concerns and suggestions raised by various groups to ensure that every detail is properly considered before the module’s rollout.
Sex education, or the PEERS module, must be expanded so that the public is equipped with the necessary knowledge.
Chan Quin Er is Wanita MCA secretary general and MCA information chief.
- This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Ova.
