Foon Yew High School apologises for late response, pledges victim support and tighter safeguards
A Malaysian high school has expelled a student implicated in creating and distributing deepfake pornographic images of peers and alumni. The case has drawn national attention, with calls for stronger digital safeguards and swifter school action.
The scandal, which erupted in Kulai, Johor, involves a 16-year-old student accused of using artificial intelligence to superimpose faces of students onto explicit images sourced online. The case has highlighted gaps in digital safety and institutional accountability, especially in educational environments.
Student Expelled After Internal Probe
Foon Yew High School’s board confirmed on April 10 that the student responsible for circulating AI-generated pornographic content has been expelled. The decision contradicts earlier public speculation suggesting the perpetrator faced only minimal disciplinary measures.
In a statement reported by Malaysiakini, the school board stated it had formally notified the student’s parents about the expulsion and promised to take the matter as a “serious lesson” for institutional reform.
Admission of Delay and Action Plan
The school acknowledged its delayed response in managing the case. It pledged to strengthen its internal policies, offer psychological support to victims, and work with both in-house and external counsellors. Legal aid will also be made available to those affected.
Strict confidentiality will be maintained for the students and families involved. “We will ensure victims receive the support they need,” the board assured.
Allegations Against Staff Found Baseless
An internal investigation also cleared a disciplinary teacher from online accusations of complicity, calling them “baseless and distorted.” The school emphasized that such misinformation only adds to the trauma endured by victims.
Ongoing Police Investigation
Johor police have arrested a 16-year-old suspect linked to the “Li Xiaobai” social media account accused of distributing the doctored images. The teen allegedly used images from victims’ social media profiles and manipulated them using AI before selling them online.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 292 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act, which address the production and distribution of obscene materials and misuse of network facilities.
The scandal has triggered widespread public debate, with many expressing disappointment over the school’s initial inaction. Critics argue that educational institutions must be more proactive and transparent when handling cyber-related offenses involving minors.
This case has resonated deeply across Malaysia and neighbouring countries like Singapore, where concerns over AI misuse, online exploitation, and youth protection are growing. The incident serves as a wake-up call for institutions to bolster digital literacy, accountability, and protective frameworks, especially in school environments.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025), The Star (2025)
Keywords: Student Expelled, Deepfake Pornography, AI Abuse, School Apology, Police Arrest
