JOHOR BARU, MALAYSIA - Teacher Seng Woam Guei was commended for her bravery when she protected her student from an attacker who was armed with a hammer and a spanner.

The 48-year-old teacher of Foon Yew High School received injuries in the forehead that required nine stitches in the attack last Friday. The Junior Year Two student also suffered head injuries.

Yesterday, Deputy Education Minister Dr Wee Ka Siong witnessed the presentation of a letter of commendation to Seng by the school Committee of Management chairman Tan Wee Hiong.

"I do not consider it a heroic act. It is my responsibility to protect my students. Any teacher will do the same," said Seng, who was honoured with the Outstanding Teachers Award in 2005.

The assailant, a 17-year-old student of the Chinese independent school, has been suspended pending police investigations.

Dr Wee described Seng as a good example of a caring and responsible teacher.

Earlier, he chaired a dialogue attended by officers from the state Education Department and the school authorities.

He said he viewed the incident seriously as the school was known for its strict discipline, tight security and good reputation since its establishment in 1913.

"This is an isolated case. So far, there is no evidence to suggest outsiders were involved in the attack," he said. However, he advised that a thorough investigation be conducted as a precaution.

On July 18, the 17-year-old rushed into a classroom on the ground floor at 1.30pm and attacked the 15-year-old, purportedly over a misunderstanding.

The attacker was overpowered and handed over to the police by school authorities.