Educators laud National Budget 2025: stress on importance of education

KOTA KINABALU: The National Budget 2025, presented by Prime Minister Datuk Anwar Ibrahim, yesterday prominently emphasises the importance of education through significant allocations of RM64.1 billion for the Education Ministry.

This includes the establishment of 44 schools, a commitment that reflects a strategic focus on enhancing educational infrastructure and resources, aiming to improve the quality of education across the nation.

According to a Special Need teacher from SMK Kolombong Inanam, Datin Connie Parantis the

RM64.1 billion allocated to the Ministry of Education, compared to RM58.7 billion last year is the highest in history

“I thank the Prime Minister Datuk Anwar Ibrahim for this move. As an educator, I welcome and am pleased with this education budget announcement, hoping that it will contribute to the overall development of education and that its benefits will reach all schools, not only in Peninsular Malaysia but also in Sabah and Sarawak. I also hope that this budget will have a positive impact on the entire education community and students.”

On the refurbishment and renovation of 543 schools, she hopes that the RM1 billion allocation announced will benefit those in need.

“This is especially important for special education schools that often face issues with insufficient classroom space due to the increasing number of students with special educational needs registering each year. Additionally, attention should be accorded to dilapidated classrooms that are not people- friendly to the disabled.”

She also expressed her belief that with such a historically high budget announcement, Sabah will also benefit in the long term, based on the breakdown of allocations listed, including the construction of 44 schools, one of which is SMK Lokawi in Putatan.

She opined that the construction of these schools will have a significant positive impact, as they will provide opportunities for teachers who were previously unable to be posted.

“It will create more job opportunities for administrative staff. Additionally, students will find it easier to choose schools closer to their homes,” she stated.

Assistant Principal Reynal Lawrence who teaches in Sekolah Kebangsaan Kampung

Brunei Membakut, is of the opinion, that the substantial national budget on education signifies several positive implications for the country especially Sabah, as it can lead to broader access to education.

This pertains to underserved population, ensuring equal opportunities for students to reach higher education, he said adding that the allocation for refurbishment and repairs for these schools are commendable as they serve the respective members of that community and the impaired.

“Any improvements and development on schools through these allocations are good and will have a positive impact on schools and education as a whole. As population grows and demands increase, we should of course expect more of such allocations,” he said.

On the 44 schools that are going to be built, he said they will benefit the population of that area.

After all, schools play an important role in shaping individuals and contributing to the development and cohesion of society, he said adding that the Prime Minister Datuk Anwar Ibrahim’s budget 2025 is fair and benefits the nation.

President of Sabah Timogun Ethnic Association Junik Bajit opined the allocation should be utilised according to priorities.

He agreed on the allocation for the refurbishment and renovation of schools, specifically for religious schools, national schools, military schools, and special education schools.

“I strongly agree, as this can help these schools provide comfort to the students involved,” he stressed.

On the impact of the education allocation to Sabah, he said in the short term, it is very helpful, but in the long term, a larger allocation must be provided to schools in Sabah and Sarawak, especially since many rural schools are in very poor condition.

He commended the establishment of the 44 schools as the locations of these schools are indeed suitable.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Education Fadhlina Sidek stated that the government’s significant commitment aims to ensure that no child is left behind and that every student segment benefits.

“This announcement offers us a significant dimension. First, it emphasises the need for effective leadership in education due to the large allocation. Second, the inclusive segment means that none of our children will be marginalised.”

She said yesterday’s announcement will ensure that all children will gain substantial benefits from new schools.