KULAI: A principal accused of sexually-grooming a male student was recently ‘removed’ from a secondary school in Johor.
The award-winning headmaster was transferred to a district education office as the Education Ministry carries out an investigation into the case.
Its Deputy Minister, Teo Nie Ching, said the move was made to prevent contact between the suspect and the alleged victim, as well as other students.
“I would like to emphasise that the ministry takes the allegation seriously, and we must make sure that schools are a safe place for our children.
“I urge anyone with information – not just about this case, but other cases – to make a report immediately. We do not want any cover-ups,” she told reporters here, today.
The issue came to light recently after an activist shared a post of the allegation on social media, including “obscene” messages which were sent to students at the Johor school.
The messages have since gone viral online.
After being alerted to the post, the Johor Education Department began investigating the school principal, who recently received an award for outstanding performance at a ceremony in Johor Baru.
Teo assured the public that the ministry will take disciplinary and legal action against the principal if he is found guilty.
However, she pointed out that the alleged victim has yet to lodge a police report on the matter.
“(As of) last weekend, no (police report) has been made. I hope the victim will lodge a police report (soon),” she added.