Kuala lumpur: The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) has allocated RM1.5 million annually to assist members facing legal action in the course of their duties as teachers. Its president, Aminuddin Awang, stated that the assistance covers both civil suits and criminal prosecutions, with some legal costs reaching up to RM80,000.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aminuddin highlighted that civil suits are increasingly being filed directly against teachers rather than against the government or the Education Department. He noted that sometimes these legal actions stem from issues that could be resolved without going to court. Aminuddin shared these insights with reporters after attending the 24th NUTP Triennial Delegates' Conference.

Aminuddin explained that NUTP also provides legal assistance to members facing criminal prosecution, especially in cases involving mistreatment allegations against teachers. He mentioned that as of last August, NUTP had provided legal assistance in 16 cases, including three that are currently undergoing trial in Kelantan.

He further elaborated that a common charge teachers face is under Section 323 of the Penal Code for intentionally causing injury to another person. Despite the criminal nature of such cases, NUTP remains committed to offering legal assistance to its members. Aminuddin also encouraged non-member teachers to join NUTP in order to avail themselves of legal support when needed, emphasizing the union's collaboration with a panel of law firms to manage these cases.