KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — A routine morning recess at a secondary school in Banting was abruptly interrupted when a Form Three student was allegedly stabbed moments after buying bread at the school canteen.

According to New Straits Times, the incident occurred at about 9.30am, when the 15-year-old girl had just sat down after purchasing food during recess. She was allegedly stabbed in both the front and back of her body.

A male student who was outside the school after the incident told the national daily that the suspect had approached the canteen from the direction of the school’s surau shortly before the attack.

“The incident happened during recess for Form Three students. The suspect stabbed her in the back and front of her body,” he said.

He said students ran from the canteen immediately after the incident, before school authorities instructed all pupils to assemble on the school field as a precaution.

Another student claimed the suspect, who is also 15, had previously attended the school but was believed to have been expelled last year.

The student also alleged that the suspect had experienced mental health issues and had previously jumped from one of the school’s buildings. 

Those claims have not been independently verified by the authorities.

The incident drew senior officials to the school later in the day. 

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek arrived at about 1pm and remained at the school for nearly half an hour, while Kuala Langat police chief Superintendent Mohd Akmalrizal Radzi was seen inspecting the scene.

Police have classified the case as attempted murder.

Asked about claims circulating on social media that the suspect had previously been bullied, Mohd Akmalrizal declined to comment, saying further details would be announced as the investigation progresses.

The victim has previously been reported to be in stable condition, while police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.