KUALA LUMPUR: The enhancement of digital education through the Education Ministry's Digital Education Policy is a major expectation for educators in Budget 2025.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) education expert Dr Anuar Ahmad said a quality infrastructure is essential for Malaysian education.
"We hope this initiative will be implemented in all schools, not just a select few, supported by significant funding for infrastructure, internet access, devices, teacher training and more,” he said in a recent interview.
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He also highlighted the importance of addressing basic school facilities, noting that improvements to school toilets for students' comfort have already begun and hoping that teachers' offices and rooms will also receive attention.
Anuar said there should be increased funding to assist targeted groups, especially underprivileged students. This includes school assistance programmes to ensure that all students have access to quality education.
"We cannot establish a quality education system if these groups do not receive adequate support.
"The widening gap between the rich and the poor will lead to significant issues within our education system," he warned.
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Budget 2025, themed "Ekonomi Madani, Negara Makmur, Rakyat Sejahtera", will be tabled in Parliament on Oct 18.
Meanwhile, education activist Mak Chee Kin suggested that direct allocations be made to parent-teacher associations (PTAs) for repairing, maintaining and upgrading school facilities based on their specific needs.
"Many schools are in poor condition, but the current process requires them to apply for assistance from district Education offices or state Education Departments, which often delays funding approval,” he said.
He added that if they are fortunate, schools might receive aid within a year, but often, it can take years.
Sometimes, a principal may have already retired by the time the aid is released, especially if the requested amount is substantial.
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Mak suggested cutting red tape, and allowing schools or PTAs to apply directly to the Education Ministry.
"Approvals should be granted directly. It’s an open secret that it is cheaper for schools or PTAs to deal directly with contractors,” he added.
Meanwhile, teacher Roziani Mohamad Yusoff, 31, expressed her hope that the Budget will focus not only on student needs but also on improving the welfare of teachers.
She called for assistance with teaching resources to create a more conducive and engaging learning environment.
"As an educator, I hope the government will pay attention to the infrastructure and facilities at workplaces, particularly in rural areas, to ensure they are adequate and improved," she said. – Bernama
