PUTRAJAYA, Oct 17 — The Cabinet has proposed three key measures to improve school safety, including a potential ban on smartphone use for students under the age of 16, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The proposed restriction aims to curb disciplinary issues, the negative influence of social media, and online gaming, which he said have been linked to bullying and other forms of misconduct in schools.
“The ban on smartphones for those under 16 is still under review...but, I believe we must be firm on this,” Anwar told the press after joining the congregants in performing Friday prayers at Surau Jannatul Firdaus PPAM Seruling in Precinct 5 today.
Alongside the smartphone ban, Anwar said the Cabinet also recommended increased police and Home Ministry (KDN) security monitoring in schools, and proposed improving the curriculum, with the involvement and support of parents and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA), to instil values and discipline among students.
“Within the Madani framework, we emphasise values and morals. Excellence in education must be accompanied by reflection and understanding.
"Many students are exposed to religious education, including Islamic and tahfiz schools, but sometimes the deeper awareness is lacking,” he said.
Anwar added that Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek will provide more detailed explanations soon and will organise engagement sessions with schools, PTAs, and the wider community.
“I hope all parties, including headmasters, principals, teachers, and parents, will offer their full cooperation. Sometimes issues arise from misunderstandings or misaligned priorities,” he said.
