KUALA LUMPUR: The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum says teachers must refrain from using their students as social media content "mules".
Content Forum chairman Rafiq Razali emphasised the importance of prudent and proactive content management on social media, especially regarding the relationships among teachers, students and the Education Ministry.
"This is vital in safeguarding Malaysia's education system and preserving the integrity of all parties involved within the digital sphere.
"The Content Code, Part 10, Paragraph 4.0 (b), states that efforts must be made to prevent any content that may cause physical or emotional harm or expose children to moral dangers.
"It defines the protection of children, including content that pays due attention to the welfare of children at all times," he said.
Meanwhile, Content Forum said teachers must consider the ethical implications of classroom content amidst potential physical and emotional consequences.
"Disregarding ethical considerations can pose significant risks to students' safety, as their identities become exposed to the public when such content is shared online.
"This not only leaves students vulnerable to breaches of privacy but also increases the likelihood of them encountering severe threats such as cyberbullying and abduction," it said in a statement.
In support of this, Content Forum echoes the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) in advocating for stricter regulations and enforcement to tackle this issue effectively.
"This is crucial to prevent teachers from misusing social media for personal purposes during working hours.
"All parties involved can curb the spread of inaccurate information on social media involving schools, teachers, and students so that it does not become a source of criticism from the public," it said.
