Story By: Lee Bullen, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Asia Wire Report

A 31-year-old primary school teacher arrested for raping and molesting at least seven young boys could face 20 years behind bars and a whipping if convicted.

The incident took place at a primary school in the eastern Malaysian state of Sarawak after the victims told friends about the alleged incidents, according to local media.

Following a preliminary investigation, it was discovered that five of the seven victims, who are now aged 13 and 15 and attend high school, were allegedly abused by the suspect when studying at the primary school, according to local police.

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The allegations came to light when some of the victims told their teenage friends what happened.

One boy who overheard the conversation then told his mum who informed the school. Following this, two other students came forward, according to reports.

It is believed that there could be more victims who are too afraid to report the teacher, who has been at the primary school since 2012.

According to local media, the alleged abuse began in 2016 and carried on for a year.

At the time, none of the victims came forward to tell their parents about it.

The unnamed teacher has been arrested and could face up to 20 years in prison and a whipping, according to reports.