THE Education Ministry has declared 2026 a pivotal year not merely for academic achievements, but for embedding social justice in education to ensure no child is left behind
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek emphasised that the national education agenda will focus on empowering all students, from preschool to secondary school, and narrowing gaps across urban, rural, and special needs communities.
Speaking at the Ministry’s 2026 New Year Address, Fadhlina said the theme “Flame of Resolve” (“Nyala Tekad”) demands that every initiative have tangible impact for vulnerable students.
“We are building not just better schools, but a fairer future. In this journey, we do not turn back. We move forward with the conviction that every Malaysian child has the right to succeed,” she said.
Fadhlina highlighted several initiatives aimed at inclusivity. The ministry will open 100 new Special Education classes in 2026, part of a target to establish 200 by 2027.
“This provides more students with special needs the opportunity to learn in a suitable environment that supports their development,” she said.
She also announced the full opening of the Malaysian Special Education Sports School in Bandar Enstek, Negeri Sembilan, allowing students with special needs to pursue sports talent in an inclusive educational setting.
The ministry will provide a RM150 allowance to students with special needs and expand early detection centres to ease the burden on families, alongside introducing Braille devices for visually impaired students.
“The potential of these children has never been lacking; what is often missing are the supporting tools. The ministry is committed to filling that gap,” Fadhlina said.
Efforts will also target students in remote areas. The Comprehensive Special Model School K11 programme will expand to three schools this year and four more next year, ensuring students in isolated communities can complete secondary education without separation from their families.
A pilot initiative will benefit 200 Penan children in Belaga, Sarawak, further demonstrating the ministry’s focus on meaningful educational access for marginalised groups.
Fadhlina underscored equal access to resources, noting, “Today, students and teachers in Nanga Ulu and Kinabatangan enjoy the same book titles as those in Melawati and Petaling Jaya. Geographic distance no longer determines reading opportunities. This is the educational equity we champion.”
Physical infrastructure upgrades include refurbishing 50 dilapidated schools, opening 17 new schools, and equipping 1,801 schools with new computer lab equipment to close the digital divide between urban and rural students.
Artificial Intelligence-powered classrooms will be piloted in 260 schools this year. Pre-university students will also receive an Early School Assistance grant of RM150, benefiting nearly 100,000 Form Six students.
“Inclusive education requires the commitment of teachers, administrators, parents, and corporate partners alike,” Fadhlina said.
“Remember, true educational success is measured not only by global rankings, but when our children grow into respectful, resilient, and capable individuals. Only then do we fulfil our duty as educators and nation builders.” - January 11, 2026
