Kuala lumpur: The media plays a crucial role in reflecting realities on the ground by linking policies formulated at the ministerial level to actual situations occurring in schools and communities, including in rural and island areas, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek stated. Fact-based and constructive media criticism is not a threat but rather part of the decision-making process in a healthy democracy, she added.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina emphasized that "fact-based criticism is the voice of the people" and highlighted the importance of accepting it with an open heart to facilitate improvements. She stressed the need for leaders to face criticism maturely and with the courage to provide answers during her speech at the Education Ministry's media networking night. The event was attended by notable figures including Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh, Education Ministry secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) CEO Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad.
Fadhlina further highlighted that education reforms are long-term commitments requiring perseverance, honesty, and courage to tackle challenges and pressures, including the post-pandemic impacts and public confidence issues surrounding the education system. She emphasized that the reform is based on the principle of justice, focusing on equitable access to education for all students, including those in urban and rural settings, children from underprivileged families, and providing ongoing support for teachers.
She noted that over the past three years, the Education Ministry has concentrated on not only restoring the system but also rebuilding trust among students, parents, and the community in educational institutions. Fadhlina shared insights from her visits to rural schools, which highlighted the geographical challenges, facilities, and the need for community support to ensure student attendance.
Fadhlina called for close cooperation among the ministry, schools, parents, communities, and the media to ensure that education policies, including initiatives related to compulsory schooling, have a tangible impact on the populace. She expressed gratitude for the continued trust placed in her to carry out her responsibilities as a Cabinet member, reaffirming her commitment to advancing the national education reform agenda.
Fadhlina assured that the trust given to her will be utilized to ensure that every education policy and initiative is implemented effectively, guided by the principles of justice, integrity, and the best interests of students, teachers, and the entire education ecosystem. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim retained several existing ministers in the MADANI Government Cabinet, including Fadhlina and her deputy, Wong Kah Woh, to ensure continuity in driving economic growth and addressing public concerns.