Experts urge focus on teaching, learning in RM69bil education budget

Experts have welcomed the RM2 billion allocation for school repairs and maintenance in the 2027 budget, but called for the majority of the RM69 billion budget to be spent on improving teaching and learning. Parent Action Group for Education chairman Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim stressed the importance of investing in better teaching and addressing learning gaps early to tackle school disengagement and associated issues such as violence, homicide and suicide.

Academic Anuar Ahmad also advocated for prioritising teacher retraining to adapt to modern teaching methods, particularly with the increasing use of technology. The budget also includes provisions for upgrading 682 dilapidated schools, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak, as well as increased assistance for early schooling and special education.