Government Committed to Addressing School Overcrowding

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek Assures Action

The Malaysian government remains committed to addressing school overcrowding by building new schools to meet growing demand, particularly in urban areas, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. According to Fadhlina, under Budget 2025, the MADANI government has approved the construction of 44 schools, the highest number in the past four years.

Increasing School Construction

In recent years, the number of schools approved in the national budget has been steadily increasing. “In recent years, the number of schools approved in the national budget was 44 in 2025, 26 in 2024, and nine each in 2023 and 2022,” Fadhlina explained. “This reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to increase school construction, particularly in urban areas, while the Education Ministry (MOE) also implements various other initiatives.”

Addressing Concerns

Fadhlina was responding to concerns raised by parents on social media regarding overcrowded classrooms, with some Year One classes in urban schools having up to 50 pupils. She assured that MOE is taking the matter seriously and would implement appropriate measures, including relocating students to other schools if necessary. “This is part of our commitment to ensure students can learn in a conducive environment,” she said.

Children Rescued from Charity Homes

In a separate matter, Fadhlina said children rescued from charity homes linked to GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd would be enrolled in national schools when the new school session begins on February 17. She said these children previously attended special classes fully managed by MOE at designated shelters. “We are still gathering data on them as the special classes were temporarily halted to facilitate court proceedings. Once all the processes are completed, I believe they should have no issues resuming their education,” she added.

Conclusion

The Malaysian government’s commitment to addressing school overcrowding is a positive step towards ensuring that students have access to quality education. The construction of new schools and the relocation of students to other schools will help to alleviate the pressure on existing schools and provide a more conducive learning environment.

FAQs

Q: What is the government’s plan to address school overcrowding?
A: The government is building new schools to meet growing demand, particularly in urban areas.

Q: How many schools have been approved for construction in the past four years?
A: 44 schools in 2025, 26 in 2024, and nine each in 2023 and 2022.

Q: What measures will be taken to address overcrowding in classrooms?
A: MOE will implement appropriate measures, including relocating students to other schools if necessary.

Q: What is happening to children rescued from charity homes linked to GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd?
A: They will be enrolled in national schools when the new school session begins on February 17.