Maintenance funds must be directly disbursed to targeted schools, with an allocation specifically set aside to improve its infrastructure Funding for maintenance works under Budget 2025, said Malaysian Association for Education secretary Hamidi Mookkaiyah Abdullah, should be immediately channeled to the schools after the relevant authority has conducted the necessary inspections.
HamidiThis, he said, will ensure that the teaching and learning (PdP) needs of teachers and students are effectively addressed.
He also called for funds to be allocated for retired teachers to be brought in to teach when there is a need.
“Retirees can be recalled to teach in schools when a teacher is away on official or medical leave.
“Experienced retired teachers can help ensure that the children continue receiving a quality education and prevent their lessons from being disrupted,” he said, adding that this would prevent students from falling behind.
The upcoming budget, he added, should also provide sufficient allocation to cover the costs of printing exam materials and to ensure that these tests are conducted professionally and securely.
“This is often lacking in exams conducted in schools. By improving security, we can prevent exam leaks and ensure that students’ results are genuine.
“Technology is advancing and by allocating funds to leverage it, we can ensure that exams are fair, secure and reliable,” he said.
FouziThe National Teachers Service Union of Malaysia (NUTP) secretary-general Fouzi Singon called for the expansion of early childhood education to ensure greater access for preschoolers and for a bigger budget to boost preschool meal programmes.
This, he said, would give kids the daily nutrition they need.
“Budget 2025 must also continue the government’s efforts to increase the number of schools in high-demand and densely populated areas,” he said, adding that promoting Form Six education as a top-tier option for students should also be on the agenda.
For educators, Fouzi urged the government to enhance teacher training to foster professionalism and adapt to future curricula.“Initiatives for improving teachers’ well-being, such as comprehensive health screenings and upgrading staff rooms for a more conducive environment, are important too.”
