The issue of period spot checks in schools saw a deep conversation on how the powers-that-be view body autonomy.
However, such a form of sexual harassment by educators has been going on for decades, and unfortunately, has been normalised up until now.
Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) has initiated investigations following recent claims by Maktab Rendah Sains Mara students of “period spot checks”.
This case of sexual harassment is an actual reflection of the longstanding patronising culture within our system. Look no further than what transpired in recent weeks, and you’ll find exactly just that.
At the outset, we witnessed a form of voter suppression in the delay of implementing Undi18 – the new voting age of 18.
We also witnessed the “unconstitutional” detention of Nigerian Simon Adavize Momoh, who was held at the Semenyih immigration depot for more than a month after being arrested for drink-driving in Cheras last month.
Judge Ab Karim Ab Rahman, during a habeas corpus hearing on April 23, ruled that Momoh’s detention was unconstitutional and ordered Momoh’s release from the depot immediately.
There is also the case involving A. Ganapathy, who was admitted to the hospital and eventually died after spending 12 days in police custody. Also, political satire artist Fahmi Reza was arrested by 20 police officers over a music playlist on Spotify.
If there were parallels drawn over these incidents, there seems to be a theme.
It is as though those in power are doing their very best to assert authority over the people.
Perhaps, the dystopian undertone is more realistic than what we have thought.
The nation has multiple issues to deal with including upholding freedom of speech, ensuring gender equality, maintaining political stability and tackling Covid-19.
Can we know what are the priorities of this replacement administration?
This is the personal opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Twentytwo13.
