Consider using metal scanners in high-risk schools

SHAH ALAM – The use of portable metal detectors may be considered in schools identified as high-risk for cases of bullying, student violence or severe mental health issues.

Criminologist from Universiti Utara Malaysia’s School of Applied Psychology, Policy and Social Work Dr Zalmizy Hussin said the measure could serve as a temporary prevention method or be used during special inspection programmes rather than being implemented daily for all students.

He said while the proposal to use metal detectors in schools was not impossible, it should be carefully studied before implementation.

“The proposal must be evaluated from various aspects, including suitability, actual necessity, cost and its impact on the learning environment. Schools are educational institutions, not detention centres or security checkpoints.

“Excessive physical control measures could create discomfort and psychological pressure among students,” he said.

However, he stressed that a more important aspect lies in early risk detection mechanisms, focusing on students’ behavioural patterns such as sudden emotional changes, depression or aggressive tendencies.

He said a monitoring system can be developed through collaboration between teachers, counsellors, parents and clinical psychologists.

“We shouldn’t only focus on detecting weapons; more importantly, we should detect signs of stress and emotional instability before a student acts dangerously,” he added.

Zalmizy also said the spot check or random inspection approach must strike a balance between safety needs and students’ rights.

The most effective approach, he said was not merely through metal detectors or bag inspections but through an early warning system and emotional well-being education in schools.

“Metal detectors can detect knives, but only love, empathy and emotional education can detect hidden wounds,” he said.

Meanwhile, Criminologist from Manipal University College Malaysia, Nadiah Syariani Md Shariff shared a different view saying that metal detectors were not suitable for schools as they would require a large budget.

She noted that installing such detectors would likely require regular maintenance, leading to additional costs and manpower.

“It’s undeniable that metal detectors are meant to tighten school security, but this can be achieved in other ways that involve various stakeholders.

“Installing closed circuit television cameras is a more realistic approach for monitoring student and teacher behaviour. In cases of crime, it can also serve as digital evidence,” she said.

On Tuesday, a 16-year-old student was fatally stabbed by another male student at a school in Damansara.

The suspect, a 14-year-old boy, was reported to have brought two sharp weapons to school before stabbing the victim.