Unicef appalled by alleged sex-for-grades case involving school student
KUCHING: United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund ( Unicef) said it is deeply disturbed by the revelations made by the Malaysian Anti- Corruption Commission ( MACC) of an alleged case of sex- for- grades in the Malaysian education system.
“Any sexual abuse against children is a serious violation of their rights. When it is perpetrated by teachers at school, it is also a breach of trust and abuse of power.
“Teachers are supposed to be role models and nurture a child’s learning and development, not sexually abuse them. No child should be afraid of going to school.
“Such behaviou r discredits the education system,” Unicef representative to Malaysia Marianne Clark-Hattingh said via a press statement yesterday.
She added that Unicef supported the stand of Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik, who vowed to protect the student who allegedly fell victim to a request for sexual gratification from her teacher in exchange for grades.
The minister had urged the victim to lodge a report and promised that action would be taken against the perpetrator.
Clark- Hattingh said sexual abuse survivors should receive immediate and adequate protection and support services, adding that students should be able to speak out without fear of repercussions or shame.
“UN agencies, civil society organisations and private companies have been working with the Ministry of Education to empower girls and boys with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves from sexual abuse.
“But obviously, more needs to be done,” she said.