The Malaysian Education Ministry has suspended all programmes involving freelance speakers at schools amid allegations of inappropriate conduct by one such individual. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek announced the immediate halt to these activities to facilitate a thorough investigation into the claims.
The action follows multiple reports circulating on social media accusing a freelance motivational speaker of misconduct during school visits. The minister described the allegations as serious, emphasizing the need to safeguard the welfare of students under the ministry’s care. She urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and file a police report, stressing that protecting student safety is a priority that cannot be compromised.
Several individuals have reportedly come forward online, sharing their experiences and related evidence in connection with the speaker’s conduct. Among these is a recent video posted on Facebook by rapper and influencer Caprice, featuring a woman who says she encountered the speaker in 2024 when she was a 16-year-old student. According to her account, the speaker initially discussed academic matters but later asked increasingly personal questions, including remarks about her clothing. The woman also said the speaker offered to buy her food, invited her to meet outside of school, and offered to pick her up, actions she found unsettling.
Additionally, the woman alleged the speaker sent her a brief video clip of herself performing an exercise-like movement, though she was uncertain who recorded it. She called on others who may have had similar interactions with the speaker to come forward or report to authorities to prevent further incidents.
The ministry has made no public confirmation regarding the validity of the allegations, underscoring that they remain subject to investigation. Datuk Seri Fadhlina reiterated the importance of official reporting channels to ensure proper handling and support for affected students.
The suspension of freelance speaker programmes will remain in place until the ministry completes its inquiry into the matter.