FADHLINA Sidek today said calls for her resignation have pushed her to work harder.
“I take calls for my resignation as a drive to do better," said the education minister, adding that she took criticism as a chance to improve.
“When I chose to be a politician, I knew I must face all kinds of criticism.
“I have my own weaknesses, but I am focused on doing my best,” she said.
She added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim advised her to remain patient, noting he faced greater challenges during his time as Education Minister.
Anwar served as education minister from 1986 to 1991.
Recently, a coalition of non-profit organisations (NGOs), students and parents under the banner Sekretariat Sekolah Selamat (SSS) urged the government to take immediate action to address what they described as a "school safety crisis" in Malaysia.
The group gave Fadhlina 30 days to implement 11 key reforms or face calls for her resignation.
Yesterday, the MOE announced 11 additional measures that will be implemented in the near future to improve security and address student discipline issues in all educational institutions under its management.
Among these include the installation of closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in identified schools and the increased role of Principals and Headmasters as well as the Disciplinary Committee in dealing with student disciplinary issues in schools.
The MOE, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), will also strengthen the mental health screening program starting from Year One to Form Six, including ongoing psychosocial intervention and support for students. – October 23, 2025
