Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Education (MOE) has lauded the Budget 2026, tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday, as a demonstration of the government's sustained commitment to elevating the national education sector. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek emphasised that the significant allocation goes beyond mere financial figures, representing the government's dedicated effort to ensure continuous progress in education.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina Sidek highlighted that the MOE has once again been prioritised in matters closely linked to education. She stated that the budget allocation is not just about expenditure but is also a moral statement and resolve to continually advance the nation's education. She shared these comments during a press meeting after the inauguration ceremony for the Byram Estate Residents' Resettlement Project, officiated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Fadhlina, who is also Nibong Tebal member of parliament, expressed her gratitude to the Prime Minister and cabinet for a budget she described as crucial and timely, particularly for its role in enhancing the status, stature, and quality of national education. She noted that the various initiatives announced demonstrate a holistic effort to transform the sector, particularly in strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Additionally, Fadhlina mentioned that the budget places significant emphasis on Bahasa Malaysia and includes provisions for constructing new, more conducive schools and maintaining student welfare programmes, including early schooling assistance. She remarked that the budget sends a clear signal that education is the fundamental foundation of national development, and strengthening the education system will remain a primary government agenda.
MOE will receive a substantially larger allocation of RM66.2 billion in 2026, up from RM64.2 billion this year. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Finance Minister, announced that nearly RM2 billion from this sum has been allocated to upgrade over 520 dilapidated schools, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak. The funds will also cover repair and maintenance works for all school types, including the refurbishment of student and teacher facilities, building on the recent success of rapidly upgrading toilets, canteens, and prayer rooms. Additionally, 38 new schools will be constructed to meet the needs of local communities.