KUALA LUMPUR: Concerns over nihilistic violent extremism (NVE) among schoolchildren require joint action by the government, schools and parents, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.
NVE refers to an emerging form of extremism involving violence without a clear political, religious or conventional ideological agenda.
Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin (PN-Masjid Tanah) said the ideology was believed to have spread among pupils, raising concerns that they could be drawn into violence.
"This ideology is believed to have spread among pupils, and this is deeply worrying. It has become a frightening crisis," she said when debating the 2027 Budget.
She said education policies played a crucial role in shaping future generations, with their effects often becoming apparent only 15 to 20 years later.
"In the past, we could say, 'It takes a village to raise a child', but things have changed. Now, 'It takes a nation to raise a child'," she said.
Mas Ermieyati said teachers needed adequate support to identify pupils experiencing emotional distress, learning difficulties or food insecurity while managing their classes.
She also called on the government to publish regular reports on school safety audits, critical repair needs, teacher vacancies by specialisation and learning outcomes.
Parents, she said, should also reflect on their responsibilities rather than placing all the blame on schools, teachers and ministers when children were harmed.
"What about our attitudes as parents? When was the last time mothers and fathers checked their children's schoolbags before they went to school?" she asked.
She also questioned whether the Health Ministry received data from the Education Ministry on pupils' mental health and psychological wellbeing to support targeted interventions in schools.
"If the Health Ministry itself does not have that data, how can it carry out targeted and effective interventions?" she added.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd