Sex education is not only about having sex, but it is also important to look at the health and reproductive system, and protecting the body from infections.
— Sid Nain
Let’s have a chat about the importance of introducing sex education into Malaysia’s school syllabus. Seriously, the government needs to take a rational look at this long-standing issue because delaying it any further will only deny students the essential knowledge they need.
I really can’t understand the viewpoint of the sceptics, like the late Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, who was the spiritual leader of PAS and former Kelantan Mentri Besar. He went as far as comparing sex education to teaching thieves how to steal better. I mean, seriously? When you look at numerous other countries around the world, they have shown the exact opposite.
If we approach this topic objectively and rationally, it becomes clear that sex education is a crucial part of a comprehensive education system. It’s not just about the practicalities of human reproduction and relationships; it’s also about promoting health, well-being, and informed decision-making among young individuals.
Sex education teaches students about sex, sexuality, and how to maintain their sexual health. It equips them with critical knowledge about reproductive health, sexual organs, adolescence, and sexually transmitted diseases. The aim is to safeguard the physical and emotional health of future generations, provide accurate information, and nurture responsible attitudes towards their own bodies and others.
Even Datin Paduka Che Asmah Ibrahim, the Chief Executive Officer of OrphanCare Foundation, which focuses on giving institutionalised children and unplanned babies a better chance at life, supports the introduction of sex education in schools. In a 2021 interview with a national daily, she highlighted how formal sex education helps children understand the risks of sexually transmitted diseases, unplanned pregnancies, and related matters.
I wholeheartedly agree with Che Asmah, and I’m sure many concerned parents who also support the inclusion of sex education in schools would agree as well.
Former Deputy Education Minister Teo Nie Ching believes that sex education can effectively address issues such as sexual crimes against young people. She argues that failing to educate children about sex and leaving them to learn from unreliable sources like social media could have detrimental effects on an entire generation.
Child activist and Voice of the Children spokesperson Sharmila Sekaran suggests that comprehensive sex education should start from the age of 11 and cover appropriate behaviour, safe and unsafe touch, and what to do in uncomfortable situations for younger children.
Sex education in schools isn’t just about the mechanics of sexual activity; it emphasises the importance of sexual health and well-being. By learning about safe sex practices, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and the emotional aspects of relationships, young individuals become empowered to prioritise their health and that of their partners.
Let’s face it. Adolescents are naturally curious about their changing bodies and relationships. Without proper guidance, they may turn to unreliable sources of information, leading to misconceptions and potentially risky behaviour. Comprehensive sex education equips students with accurate and science-based information, helping them make informed decisions about their health and relationships.
Moreover, it indirectly provides an opportunity to educate students about consent, boundaries, and respectful relationships. Understanding these concepts from an early age can contribute to a culture of mutual respect and help prevent incidents of harassment and abuse.
Especially in this digital age, where our young people are exposed to a wealth of information, both reliable and misleading, having sex education in schools becomes crucial. It will prepare them to critically evaluate online resources, enabling them to differentiate between trustworthy information and potentially harmful content.
Discussing sex openly and honestly within an educational setting helps break down taboos, reduce shame, and counteract the stigma associated with sexuality. This, in turn, allows students to approach their own bodies and the topic of sex with confidence and a healthy sense of self.
The knowledge gained during school years has lifelong implications. It can influence decisions about relationships, family planning, and sexual health throughout adulthood, ultimately leading to a healthier and more informed society.
To wrap it up, incorporating sex education into the school curriculum is a vital step towards nurturing informed, responsible, and healthy individuals. By providing accurate information, fostering respectful attitudes, and addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of sexuality, we can create a brighter future.
So, I urge the Malaysian government to seriously consider implementing comprehensive sex education in schools without any further delay. It’s time to give our students the knowledge and tools they need to navigate their sexual health and relationships successfully.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
