Kota Kinabalu: A total of 496,541 students in Sabah will benefit from the Early Schooling Aid (BAP) initiative, with an allocation of over RM74.48 million set to be distributed across 1,295 schools statewide. Education Ministry secretary-general Datuk Ruji Ubi said this is to provide equal opportunities for all students to begin their school year on the right footing while encouraging excellence in education.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ruji called on parents, guardians, and students benefiting from the 2025 BAP to boost students' motivation to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to their religion, race, and nation. He made these remarks to reporters after the presentation of the 2025 BAP mock cheque for Sabah, officiated by Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, at Sekolah Kebangsaan Sembulan today.

Ruji urged all District Education Offices (PPD) and schools to complete the aid distribution within one week before the school session ends. He also reminded all school principals and headmasters that no deductions or fees should be taken from the BAP funds, emphasizing that the ministry will monitor the distribution process to ensure it is done properly without any issues. Parents are encouraged to report to PPD or the State Education Department if any deductions are made by schools.

On the issue of dilapidated schools in Sabah, Ruji stated that 122 renovation projects have been approved nationwide for 2025, with 52 located in the state. The approved budget for the ministry's infrastructure projects nationwide is RM6.3 billion, with RM1 billion allocated specifically for projects in Sabah. The distribution of these funds aims to ensure that school infrastructure and facilities are in good condition and conducive to teaching and learning.