PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that the government's efforts to address school infrastructure issues have led to a total expenditure of RM1 billion just for the renovation of school toilets across the country.
Anwar highlighted the importance of tackling school infrastructure problems since he assumed his ministerial role last year.
He acknowledged the many issues schools face, including development, canteen facilities, and especially the condition of toilets, which have required immediate attention.
“Among the first matters I raised when I took on this position was to monitor the condition of schools," Anwar said.
"Many schools face issues regarding infrastructure, development, and canteen facilities. However, I started with the toilets because the cost for their repair alone has already reached RM1 billion. While this may resolve some issues, it’s not the end of it."
Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, pointed out that some schools in the Kuala Lumpur area also require urgent repairs.
He expressed that relying solely on government departments or the Ministry of Education would not be enough to address the challenges.
“One district education officer might oversee 50 secondary schools, 60 primary schools, religious schools, Chinese schools, Tamil schools. Therefore, we introduced the ‘Sekolah Angkat’ (Adopted Schools) program this year as a solution,” he explained today at the ministry’s monthly assembly.
The Prime Minister assured these efforts to improve school facilities, particularly toilets, will continue, ensuring a better environment for students.
“I have a committee, monitoring, and partners who will report on progress, and we will assist as much as possible. Is this an ideal example? I don’t think so, but I believe it can be done,” he added.
Anwar’s statements underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education facilities, ensuring that schools across Malaysia provide a safer and more comfortable environment for students. – March 13, 2025
