Parents and education stakeholders have welcomed the government’s decision to extend the RM150 Early Schooling Aid to students up to Form Six, describing the move as timely relief for families preparing for the new academic year.
The expanded assistance, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly, will be credited on 13th January and covers students in both primary and secondary schools, including Form Six. The initiative aims to help parents manage early schooling expenses as the new term approaches.
Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) chairman of SK La Salle, Petaling Jaya, Leben Siddharth Kuppusamy said the aid would provide meaningful financial relief, particularly as schooling costs continue to rise.
“Although textbooks are provided free by the ministry, parents still need to spend on exercise books, revision materials and stationery,”he said when contacted.
Sharing a personal example, Leben noted that his son, who is in Standard Six, was issued a stationery list that could cost parents up to RM160 if followed in full. While he chooses to be selective and purchase only essential items, he acknowledged that not all families have the same flexibility.
Leben also welcomed the continuation of the aid, noting that it would benefit a significant number of families. “There are about 410 students in my son’s school. This RM150 assistance will be a huge help for nearly 400 families,” he said.
However, he pointed out that the announcement could have been made earlier, as many parents had already purchased school books, uniforms and supplies ahead of the new term.
Echoing similar sentiments, SJKT PJS1 PIBG chairman Yogeswaran Rajasagran expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting its importance for families form the B40 and hardcore poor groups.
“This fund will help reduce parents’ financial burden, especially those who are struggling to make ends meet”, he said, adding that the assistance could be used for essential items such as books, stationery, uniforms and shoes.
Yogeswaran also called on the government to consider making the Early School Aid a permanent annual allocation and to disburse it before the school session begins.
Meanwhile, Parent Action Group for Education (PAGE) chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim welcomed the aid but cautioned parents against becoming overly reliant on government assistance.
“Any financial help is always welcome. However, parents should not become dependent on any aid, annual or otherwise, as it becomes a crutch rather than a boost,” she said.
She stressed the importance of prudent financial planning, urging parents to save months in advance for schooling needs instead of relying solely on aid.
“The money is a huge relief for many low-income families, but being solely dependent on it could put parents in a tougher spot,” she added, noting that responsible spending and family planning remain crucial.
Yesterday, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the RM150 Early Schooling Aid would be credited on 13th January for all students up to Form Six. reaffirming the governments commitment to easing early schooling costs and supporting families as they prepare for the new academic year.
Sources: NST
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