Melaka school gang rape: 4 students, aged 17, expelled from school but can still take exams

Four students, aged 17, allegedly involved in the gang rape of a junior 15-year-old schoolmate in Melaka, will still be allowed to sit for the upcoming Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination, which is the equivalent to the Singaporean O-level exam, Malay Mail reported.

Fadhlina Sidek, the Malaysia education minister, confirmed that this decision was reached after consultations with Melaka’s education department, the higher learning and religious affairs committee chairman, and the state police chief.

She affirmed that this decision was in line with the ministry’s principle of ensuring education for all students.

“Yes, the SPM examination will begin on Nov. 3, and the students involved will still be allowed to sit for it. We will also ensure that they do not fall behind in their studies,” she said, according to Bernama.

She added that while legal proceedings are being handled by the police, the education ministry will focus on providing emotional support, managing discipline, and ensuring the safety and well-being of students and teachers within the school ecosystem, according to Malay Mail.

Students expelled, will take exams outside school

In the latest development on Oct. 13, the director-general of education, Mohd Azam Ahmad, said that those involved have been expelled and the decision was made by the School Disciplinary Board.

Azam clarified that while all four suspects are still allowed to sit for the examinations, they are not allowed to do in the same school.

He said: “They have to sit for their SPM in a detention centre, or a separate place.”

He added that just because they can take their exams does not mean that they will not be punished.

Alleged assault in school

A 15-year-old student was allegedly gang-raped in a classroom in Melaka at about 2:50pm on Oct. 2, according to Sinar Harian.

She had gone back to the classroom to pick up materials for a science project that she had left behind.

That was when she realised she was being observed by two of the suspects.

Alarmed, she tried to leave immediately, but one of the senior male students allegedly grabbed her by the hand, covered her mouth and forced her inside the classroom.

He proceeded to strip and rape the victim, while another suspect joined in.

Meanwhile, two other schoolmates allegedly stood guard outside the classroom while the assault took place, and recorded the incident on a mobile phone.

The video was later circulated widely among students before a teacher was alerted.

The victim’s mother lodged a police report after learning about the incident and viewing the clip.

The Melaka police chief has confirmed that all four suspects have been arrested and placed under remand until Oct. 16 to assist in investigations.

Victim's condition & school support

Fadhlina said the ministry was working closely with the state police, and medical professionals to safeguard the victim’s welfare:

“All necessary actions have been taken by the relevant departments, particularly to ensure the protection and well-being of the student."

The student is currently hospitalised and receiving medical treatment, as well as psychological and emotional support from counsellors and hospital staff.

She also urged members of the public to be sensitive and responsible when discussing the case, stressing that the identities of minors must be protected under existing laws.

Other official responses

Lee Lam Thye, the Alliance for a Safe Community chairman, said the case should serve as a “wake-up call” for all stakeholders to intensify efforts in strengthening moral education, school safety, and disciplinary systems.

“Parents have a vital role to play by maintaining open communication with their children about respect, empathy, and consequences of harmful behaviour,” he added.

“Communities must unite to create environments where such acts are condemned and prevented through education and guidance.”

Top photo via Unsplash