KUALA LANGAT: According to Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, the Education Ministry is dedicated to recognizing and supporting vernacular schools. She emphasized that they will continue to abide by the Education Act 1996, which acknowledges the establishment of such schools.
During a visit to SK Saujana Putra, Fadhlina stated, “This legislation acknowledges the schools, and we are committed to maintaining that stance in accordance with the law.” This statement was made in response to Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s call for a reevaluation of the vernacular education system due to concerns about lack of cohesion among the population.
Addressing the call for reassessment, Fadhlina commented, “We acknowledge those opinions, but currently, the ministry is focused on strengthening the Education Act.
On Monday, pupils in states categorized under Group B resumed classes for the new school year. Fadhlina disclosed that a total of 3.6 million students from preschool to Form Five commenced their school session that day, with 927,528 students in Selangor alone. Group A, which includes Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu, started on Sunday (March 10).
Group B comprises Selangor, Melaka, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, and the three Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
Fadhlina’s visit to SK Saujana Putra highlighted the Education Ministry’s commitment to acknowledging and supporting vernacular schools. The minister stressed the importance of upholding the Education Act 1996, which officially recognizes the existence of such schools in Malaysia.
Regarding the recent discussions surrounding vernacular education, Fadhlina reassured that the ministry is dedicated to preserving the rights and status of these schools in accordance with the law.
During the visit, Fadhlina also addressed concerns raised by Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh about the potential impact of vernacular schools on social cohesion. She acknowledged the differing opinions but reiterated the ministry’s priority in strengthening the Education Act to benefit all students.
With the start of the new school year, millions of students across Malaysia have returned to their classrooms, with Group B states resuming classes on Monday. Fadhlina shared that a significant number of students, including those in Selangor, have commenced their academic year, highlighting the diversity and scale of Malaysia’s education system.
As education remains a key focus for the ministry, Fadhlina emphasized the importance of inclusivity and support for all types of schools, including vernacular institutions. By upholding the Education Act and recognizing the needs of diverse student populations, the ministry aims to provide quality education for all learners in Malaysia.
