The Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA) expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends and teachers of Irene Sofiya Mohd Khairool Faisal, the 16-year-old student who tragically lost her life on school grounds in Yong Peng, Johor.
As an organisation dedicated to the care, protection and advocacy of children and adolescents, we are profoundly shocked and saddened by this tragedy.
Schools must remain sanctuaries of safety, learning and growth. The loss of a promising young life, who dreamed of becoming a doctor to serve her community, is truly devastating.
While the circumstances of individual incidents remain subject to investigation, this must not delay a wider review of school safety and safeguarding.
