KUCHING: The government has charted five strategic directions to reshape Malaysia’s education landscape into one that is more inclusive, future-oriented, and sustainable.
The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, at the National Teachers’ Day 2025 celebration at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Friday.
The event drew a crowd of more than 5,000 people, including educators, government officials, and members of the public, who gathered to mark the occasion and celebrate the contributions of teachers across the nation.
During the event, he emphasised the need for effective and fair distribution of the RM64.1 billion education allocation under Budget 2025, the largest in the nation’s history.
“Change must be inclusive and just,” he said.
“This large allocation should not just look good on paper, but must truly reach the grassroots and achieve its intended goals.”
Among the five main directions outlined was the Equitable Distribution of Allocations, which calls for education funding to be comprehensively distributed without neglecting any groups, particularly those in rural and interior regions.
The second direction focuses on the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation, encouraging the integration of technology to reduce teachers’ administrative workload, allowing them to concentrate more on teaching and student development.
Thirdly, Zahid highlighted the importance of safeguarding the welfare of teachers, especially those often overlooked in recognition systems, such as Al-Quran and Fardu Ain (KAFA) teachers, tahfiz teachers, teachers with disabilities (OKU), and special education teachers.
The fourth direction calls for accelerated digital transformation in the education sector.
He underscored the need for both teachers and students to become proficient in digital tools and responsible online behaviour.
“Students must also be trained to become fluent and ethical digital users,” he said.
The final direction urges the strengthening of recognition systems for teachers, particularly those serving in challenging environments such as remote areas, and those who take the initiative to develop their own teaching modules.
“We must pay attention to teachers in the interiors of Sarawak, Sabah, and Orang Asli schools. They deserve to receive new incentives,” he added.
He also touched on the need for continuous training for instructors in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) under the Ministry of Education to ensure they stay aligned with current industry demands.
Also present at the event were Education Minister, Fadhlina Sidek; Works Minister, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi; Sarawak Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; and Sarawak Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
