GOPENG: The Rural and Regional Development Ministry has allocated RM40mil to the Community Development Department (Kemas) to carry out upgrades and repairs on kindergartens and childcare centres nationwide.
Kemas director-general Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Man said approximately 60% of the 10,600 kindergartens and childcare centres would undergo immediate maintenance, to address dilapidated and damaged conditions of many premises.
"Priority will be given to older buildings to ensure the safety and well-being of the children attending these kindergartens.
"We want to ensure that the facilities are safe so children can pursue their studies without concern," he said.
Hanafiah added that all states are currently finalising data on kindergartens in need of repairs, he said.
He also announced the construction of 17 new kindergartens, including two in Kampar and Tambun, in 2025 to meet growing demand.
"Interest from parents to enrol their children continues to rise. Currently, over 20,000 children are on the waiting list to attend Kemas kindergartens," he said. – Bernama
