Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Education (MoE) is set to review the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for outdoor activities in all its institutions to enhance safety protocols. This decision follows a tragic incident at Pantai Merdeka last Saturday, which resulted in the deaths of two trainee teachers from the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Perlis Campus during an off-campus programme.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has stated that the ministry takes full responsibility for the unfortunate incident. In a statement released today, she emphasized that justice must be served for the victims' families and assured that a transparent, thorough, and comprehensive investigation is currently being conducted. She further noted that any breaches of regulations would be addressed, and accountability would be enforced without shielding any individuals involved.
As part of the immediate response to the incident, Fadhlina announced that several officers who were directly involved in organizing the programme would be temporarily reassigned to the Perlis State Education Department pending the outcome of the investigation. This measure aims to facilitate an unbiased review process.
In a show of solidarity and support, Fadhlina visited Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah in Alor Setar, Kedah, yesterday to pay her respects to the deceased, Christopher Ling Jia Siang and Joey Ling Lin Siang. During her visit, she met with the families of the victims to extend her condolences and support during this difficult time.