SHAH ALAM – Every teacher is, first and foremost, a discipline teacher – responsible not only for imparting knowledge, but also for nurturing values, character and respect among students.
That was the core message from education experts who believe that the key to curbing misconduct in schools lies not in surveillance technology, but in human connection and moral guidance within the classroom.
As calls for stronger discipline in schools grow louder, the Education Ministry (MOE) is moving ahead with plans to enhance security through CCTV installations.
MOE deputy secretary-general (Planning and Development) Datuk Wan Hashim Wan Rahim recently said the ministry intends to expand CCTV coverage beyond boarding schools to other educational institutions nationwide.
The move comes amid public debate on whether cameras can truly make schools safer. But many educators warn that while CCTVs may deter certain acts of misbehaviour, they cannot address the deeper causes of bullying or moral decay.
‘Discipline begins with every teacher’
Educationist and former Universiti Malaya professor Tan Sri Dr T. Marimuthu said schools must remember their role as moral institutions, not just places of academic learning.
“When discipline issues arise, teachers often send students to the discipline teacher. However, I believe that every teacher should also play the role of a moral and discipline teacher,” he said.
Marimuthu said teachers could refer students to counselling sessions when needed, but the responsibility to instil good values starts with every educator in the classroom.
“Discipline and moral education should be the foundation of all teaching, regardless of the subject.
“Every teacher plays an important role in shaping responsible, respectful citizens,” he said.
Marimuthu emphasised that discipline is not just about enforcing rules or punishment, but about building character and fostering respect for oneself and others.
“Cameras can be vandalised or switched off. They don’t change behaviour,” he added, calling on the authorities to convene education experts, parents and stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive review of the system.
‘Technology cannot replace trust’
University of Cyberjaya adjunct professor and education consultant Datuk Satinah Syed Saleh agreed that while technology may help monitor, it cannot nurture discipline or values.
“While technology can support safety, we must carefully weigh whether cameras truly foster a nurturing learning environment or simply create a culture of surveillance,” she said.
Satinah acknowledged that CCTVs have their uses where they can deter vandalism, bullying, theft and unauthorised entry, and provide valuable evidence when incidents occur.
“From my perspective, CCTVs may have a role, but they are not a silver bullet.
“Real discipline and respect cannot be built on constant monitoring. They come from values-based education, strong teacher presence, counselling and positive student engagement,” she told Sinar Daily.