‘Hak Kitak: School Edition’ launched in Sarawak to boost legal awareness among youths

KUCHING (Jan 25): The ‘Hak Kitak: School Edition’ programme was officially launched in Sarawak at SMK Tunku Abdul Rahman yesterday, marking its first introduction in the state.

The programme aims to raise awareness among students, teachers and parents on legal rights and responsibilities, particularly in addressing issues such as bullying, school safety and the responsible use of social media.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, also the Petrajaya MP, in his speech at the programme’s launch, said the initiative is timely as society faces growing challenges in educating and shaping young people in the digital age.

“When we understand our rights, we will also understand our responsibilities. At the same time, we will realise that others too have rights and responsibilities,” he said in his speech.

Fadillah noted that social media has become a major influence in the lives of young people, exposing them not only to the risk of becoming victims, but at times, perpetrators of wrongdoing without realising it.

“Sometimes, without being aware, we share information on social media that can expose ourselves to criminal elements,” he said.

“This often happens because we do not fully understand what is allowed or prohibited under the law.”

The Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation further stressed that education should go beyond academic knowledge and skills, and must also include character building and the ability to distinguish between right and wrong.

He also highlighted the significant rise in bullying cases nationwide, noting that many victims are reluctant to report cases due to fear, shame, or lack of knowledge about reporting channels.

“That is why programmes like this must be expanded, so students can recognise bullying behaviours and know how and where to report them, whether the bullying is physical, verbal or online,” he said, calling for collective efforts from teachers, students, parents, the community and leadership at all levels to ensure the well-being of children.

Also present were the Yayasan Tan Sri Professor Ahmad Ahmad Ibrahim chairperson, Tan Sri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil; and Sarawak Education Director, Omar Mahli.