EXAMINATION-based learning was abolished to reduce academic stress among students, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
Instead, the current approach is on inquiry-based learning in tandem with the exploration, contextual and experience aspects, alongside the holistic assessment of students.
“At the ministry level, we made the decision to abolish exam-oriented learning.
“Classroom-based assessments provide a better benchmark, especially when it comes to assessing students in a more holistic manner.
“These are among the measures taken to ensure there is no more focus on exam-oriented learning and to reduce academic pressure among students while enhancing their interest in their education,” she said during Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
She was responding to Tan Kar Hing (PH-Gopeng), who had asked whether the ministry will review its curriculum to reduce academic stress among students.
Separately, Fadhlina said annual mental health screenings are among the measures taken to identify students facing emotional disturbance issues.
She said the Minda Sihat screenings are conducted annually for all students from Year Five to Form Six.
“Those identified with severe emotional disturbance will undergo the screenings twice each year.
“Immediate intervention will also be carried out on students showing early signs of depression,” she added.
She said psychosocial support helplines are also available through phone calls as well as WhatsApp and Telegram, allowing students to obtain support when needed.
“The ministry also uploads psycho-education materials like infographics, short videos and wellness guides on various social media platforms.
“For students found to have severe depression, the school will hold consultation sessions with their guardians before referring them to health specialists for treatment.
“Guardians will also be taught various measures to help support their children at home,” said Fadhlina.
She said her ministry is working with the Health Ministry to develop a referral system and is implementing the Health Promotion in Learning Institutions initiative.
She added that the ministry is also developing a Teacher’s Wellness Index.
Tan had asked whether the ministry would be introducing a more comprehensive psychological and counselling support programme for teachers and students. This comes after cases of students falling to their death in recent months.
Those suffering from mental health issues or are contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); or Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, visit www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my).
