Last week, Education Minister, Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin announced during his live press conference the reopening dates for all schools across Malaysia. Preschool and primary school students will be going back to their schools earlier as compared to high school students.
Post the announcement, some parents were relieved but there were also some netizens calling out the government for their sudden announcement just when parents were starting to buy devices for their children to ease their online learning. They also pointed out that some parents may face financial difficulties as they need to buy school uniform and supplies for their children.
Following this, several MPs in the opposition bloc have requested the Ministry of Education Committee to give students the flexibility to dress freely when they’re returning back to their schools. The Pakatan Harapan Education chaired by former Education Minister, Dr Maszlee Malik, released a statement yesterday (21 February) saying that this flexibility is necessary to ease the financial burden of parents affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Astro Awani reported that the group added that they hoped the MOE will consider this relaxation at least for this year.
“The flexibility to dress freely should be given at least for this year as there is a possibility that the schools will be closed again if the MCO is implemented again.”
In the statement, they also mentioned that teachers should be the priority to receive the Covid-19 vaccine as they’re frontliners responsible for the future of the nation.
Should students be given the flexibility to dress freely? Let us know what you think!
Also read: “Some parents can’t afford it” M’sian Feels School Uniforms Should Be Abolished
