KUCHING: Education is not merely an economic agenda, but the foundation of building a civilised nation and a knowledgeable society, says the Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers’ Union (KGBS).
Its president Zulkiflee Sebli said the proposal by Pandan MP and former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli to end schooling at 16 was impractical and could negatively affect human capital development in the country.
He said the move was detached from the realities of Malaysia’s education system and risked undermining the National Education Philosophy.
“Education is not just about creating cheap labour. It is about shaping a generation that is knowledgeable, ethical and visionary.
“At a time when other countries are extending education to build tech-savvy and innovative generations, this proposal appears to be a step backwards.
“The existing system is already flexible. Students who do not excel academically have options in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) after Form 3 or Form 5,” he told Sarawak Tribune today.
He was asked to comment on Rafizi’s proposal in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday (Aug 4) to end schooling at the age of 16.
Rejecting the proposal, Zulkiflee said ending schooling at Form 4 would cut off pathways to pre-university, TVET and other training opportunities.
He said it would weaken the academic foundation needed to enter an increasingly competitive job market.
“Students who enter the workforce too early without academic preparation or skills will be more vulnerable to social problems and long-term unemployment,” he added.
He stressed that students in rural and interior areas of Sabah and Sarawak would be the most affected due to limited access and facilities.
As such, KGBS urged the government and political leaders to be more thorough when presenting proposals concerning the future of national education.
“This proposal appears to deny rural students the right to enjoy quality education equal to their peers in urban areas.
“KGBS remains committed to defending students’ right to receive a comprehensive education up to the highest level they are capable of achieving,” he asserted.
