LETTER | I refer to the letter published in Malaysiakini, “Time for first aid, CPR programme for students and teachers” by Dr Sarah Shaikh Abdul Karim. The call to strengthen lifesaving education in schools is both timely and necessary.

First, it is important to recognise that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is not entirely absent from our education system.

The Pendidikan Jasmani dan Kesihatan curriculum already includes CPR content in school textbooks. The issue we face today is the gap between curriculum intent and classroom reality.

In many schools, teachers may not have received formal basic life support training. Without proper certification, hands-on practice, and exposure to updated resuscitation guidelines, it is understandably challenging for educators to confidently teach and demonstrate CPR.

Furthermore, limitations in equipment such as mannequins and AED training tools further restrict practical learning, leaving students with theoretical awareness rather than usable skills.

If we are serious about improving survival outcomes from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, the focus must shift from curriculum inclusion to implementation quality.

One practical and impactful step forward would be to ensure that all teachers - particularly those in physical education, discipline, and student welfare roles - are formally certified in basic life support and equipped to conduct CPR training confidently in schools.

Teachers are the most consistent touchpoint for students. When they are properly trained and supported, they become powerful multipliers of lifesaving knowledge, capable of embedding CPR skills as a natural part of school learning culture rather than a one-off exposure.

Countries that have successfully improved cardiac arrest survival rates have not relied solely on curriculum statements; they have invested in structured training, repeated practice, and system-wide preparedness.

In Denmark, CPR training became mandatory in schools in 2005, reinforced at multiple stages of education. National laws also require CPR training for driving licence applicants which creates repetition beyond schools.

The country saw a significant increase in bystander CPR rates and survival from cardiac arrest over time.

Nearer to us in Singapore, the National Resuscitation Council supports standardised training nationwide.

Teachers are trained, and external certified instructors assist schools for students to undergo structured CPR-AED modules.

Its extensive public AED network supports awareness and confidence in people performing CPR during emergency.

Malaysia already has the foundation within its curriculum. The next step is to strengthen execution - through teacher certification, adequate training resources, and sustained practical reinforcement.

In doing so, we move closer to ensuring that every school is not just a place of learning, but also a place where lifesaving action is second nature. Let’s work hand in hand to make this a reality.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.