PETALING JAYA, Oct 15 — The case of a 16-year-old student who was fatally stabbed at a secondary school yesterday has shocked the community, sparking concern among parents over safety standards in schools.
The incident occurred at 9.30am in Bandar Utama, when she was believed to have been killed by a 14-year-old male student inside one of the school's girls’ toilets.
A Media Selangor survey of the school area today found a noticeable drop in student attendance, while the number of parents’ vehicles, which usually fill the school compound, had also significantly decreased.
Several alumni and parents were seen at the scene seeking updates, with some laying floral tributes in honour of the victim.
Several parents interviewed expressed deep concern over their children’s safety at school, which they said should be the safest place to learn. They also conveyed their sympathy to the victim’s family and urged the Education Ministry (MOE), the school authorities, and the relevant parties to tighten security measures.
A school bus operator, speaking anonymously, said many students were still traumatised by the incident, and all ten students he usually transported had stayed home that day.
“Following the incident, the school tightened control by not allowing any parents or bus drivers to enter the school compound to wait for students,” he said.
Meanwhile, a parent from a nearby primary school, in his 40s and only known as Huszaifah, said the tragedy had also affected younger pupils, many of whom were now afraid to attend school.
“As parents, we are very worried. If such a thing could happen to someone else’s child today, it is not impossible that it could happen to ours in the future,” he said.
Huszaifah added that schools should strengthen security checks, including conducting random inspections to prevent students from bringing prohibited items to school.
“In addition, effective communication between teachers, students, and school management must be enhanced to foster a safer learning environment," he said.
One of the school's former students, who only wanted to be known as Tan, 18, said the tragedy deeply shook him and his fellow alumni.
“This school is known for its good discipline and active students. We truly did not expect something like this to happen.
"We hope the school will step up safety measures, including regular inspections, to ensure no dangerous items are brought into the premises,” he said.
