KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim denounced the prevalence of abuse within educational institutions.
"There are several messages from Indonesian friends regarding the heartbreaking story of the abuse of students at a pesantren (Islamic boarding school) in East Java.
They echo the memory of national coverage since long ago - stories of student abuse including my own experience which occurred when I was Minister of Education at a secondary school in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. The most tragic and shocking however, is the death of a student at the National Defense University.
Anwar emphasised that education must uphold values of discipline, morals, and manners.
He said that lessons, including religious education, should not be limited to acquiring knowledge and reciting verses but should also instil enlightenment, awareness, and practical application.
"Therefore, all educators and parents must address this issue and refrain from condoning such unethical practices.
"For schools, madrasahs, institutes, colleges, and universities, emphasis should be placed on maintaining discipline and manners and firmly avoiding dishonesty from taking root within the educational institutions," he said.
Meanwhile, on his inaugural visit to Germany, Anwar urged the Malaysian delegation to seize spiritual opportunities during the holy months.
" Muslims in Berlin have commenced their observance of the Ramadan, with sahur starting at 4.00am and Fajr prayer at 4.35am.
"It is recommended that the delegation utilise this period to engage in Quranic reading and reflection.
"Let the onset of Ramadan serve as an opportunity for us to engage in prayers, elevate our deeds, and strive for the highest level of taqwa, earnestly seeking the blessings of this holy month."