The principal of a school in Tuen Mun has been suspended after an online video allegedly showed him verbally abusing a security guard during a school trip to Singapore.

The incorporated management committee of San Wui Commercial Society Secondary School made the decision after the incident last week sparked public concern.

The incident was reportedly triggered by a parking dispute.

The committee convened a meeting on Tuesday to address the incident.

Former lawmaker Edmund Wong, who is also an independent manager of the committee, said they decided that the vice-principal will take over for now.

“This principal’s words and deeds indeed have fallen short of the public’s expectations. Therefore, the committee also decided to suspend the principal from his duties, and let the vice-principal fill in for the principal, so as not to affect the school’s operation,” he said.

“We expect the suspension will last till we submit an investigation report to the Education Bureau. Upon submission, we will explain the matter to the public and other stakeholders as soon as possible.”

Wong said he believes there could be various reasons leading to the incident.

Perhaps there was miscommunication among parties involved in the incident, including the security guards and drivers, causing a verbal altercation, Wong said, adding he believes there is always room for improvement.

Wong said the incident would impact the school’s reputation, but believes that parents and the public will understand that it is an isolated incident.

Given that the school has a long history, Wong added that he believes the committee can restore the public’s confidence.

The company the security guards in Singapore work for have filed a report to the police, according to media reports there.


Edited by Aaron Tam