Teachers union: RM69b education allocation must bring real improvements to Malaysian schools

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 — The Malaysian education sector is eagerly awaiting the proposed RM69 billion education allocation in Budget 2027, which is set to bring about significant improvements in schools nationwide. Dr Mohd Sobri Yusuf, president of the West Malaysia Malay Teachers Union (KGMMB), emphasized that the increased budget should translate into tangible benefits for teachers and students.

Safety and comfort within school facilities, as well as the recruitment of teaching assistants, are among the key areas of improvement.

Mohd Sobri highlighted that the doubled school maintenance allocation could directly benefit schools by ensuring safe and comfortable learning environments, with a particular focus on repairing critical facilities like leaky roofs and faulty wiring. Additionally, the recruitment of 200 teaching assistants for primary schools with large numbers of students could help alleviate teachers' workload, allowing them to concentrate on teaching and student learning needs.

The Federation of Peninsular Malay Students (GPMS) president, Muhd Fazreen Ismadi Fauzi, echoed similar sentiments, advocating for the increased Early Schooling Assistance (BAP) to RM200 to help parents, especially those from the B40 group, cover the costs of preparing their children for school. However, Fazreen stressed the importance of ensuring the increased aid does not lead to inflated prices for school supplies, while also proposing a monthly distribution of the RM2,500 allowance for Form Six students to facilitate better financial management.

Moreover, Fazreen emphasized the need to ensure school facilities accommodate students with disabilities, particularly in light of the planned enrolment of six-year-olds in Year One from 2027. Schools must be equipped with suitable facilities and support services to cater to the needs of all students.