Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek announced that the government allocated RM213.3 million last year to support Chinese, Tamil, and mission schools.
In her parliamentary response, she stated that Chinese schools received RM44.94 million, Tamil schools were allocated RM17.83 million, and mission schools were granted RM16.19 million. An additional RM134.33 million was designated for upgrading the toilets in these government-aided schools.
“This initiative is part of our continuous efforts to maintain cleanliness and provide a comfortable environment for students and staff,” she stated.
Fadhlina stated that the government also subsidizes school utility bills, covering up to RM5,000 per month.
“This rate remains unchanged in accordance with the government’s financial capacity. However, we are open to reviewing it when necessary to enhance support for these schools,” she added.
Fadhlina explained that the government continuously monitors school conditions and adjusts funding according to national financial priorities. She emphasized that the Ministry of Education remains committed to ensuring government-aided schools receive the necessary support to uphold a high-quality education system.
Her remarks were in response to a question from Fong Kui Lun (PH-Bukit Bintang), who inquired about the possibility of increasing aid to accommodate rising electricity and maintenance costs. Fong expressed concerns that the rising utility and maintenance costs were putting financial pressure on these schools, which depend on government funding and public donations.
With growing concerns over the declining student enrollment in Tamil schools, this financial support will play a crucial role in improving school facilities. By upgrading infrastructure and ensuring a well-equipped learning environment, these enhancements will make Tamil schools more appealing and suitable for parents seeking quality education for their children. Strengthening these institutions will not only preserve their cultural and linguistic heritage but also encourage more families to consider them as a viable educational option.
Source: Free Malaysia Today
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