Ipoh: Excellence in education must go hand in hand with high morals, and life ethics, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister emphasized that apart from enhancing one's dignity through knowledge, education serves as a platform to become a good citizen and a useful individual to the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed his concerns over reports about children's moral and discipline deficiencies, which he finds very worrying. He stressed that the purpose of education is to shape individuals into good citizens and responsible parents within society and the country. He delivered this message to 1,500 students who are Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates at a special session during the Excellent SPM Seminar: I am an Excellent MADANI Student programme at Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan Yuk Choy.

Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh was also present at the event. Anwar reiterated his stance on the necessity for students to avoid bullying practices in schools, which has led the government to consider enacting anti-bullying laws. He explained that while schools are organized to educate and maintain morals and knowledge, the need for such laws indicates that some individuals may require more than just advice to maintain discipline.

During the session, the Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of mastering the Malay language alongside other languages among students. He stated that as Malaysians, mastering the Malay language is essential, without undermining the significance of other languages, including English. He pointed out the growing number of students attending international schools and stressed the need for these students to also master the Malay language to remain connected to Malaysia's history and culture.