KUCHING: The Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers’ Union (KGBS) has called for a cautious and phased implementation of the Education Ministry’s proposal to standardise school uniforms nationwide by 2027, with full stakeholder engagement.
KGBS president Zulkiflee Sebli said the union understands the ministry’s intention to foster unity, promote uniformity and ease financial pressure on parents arising from the variety of colours and designs currently used in schools.
“KGBS does not reject the proposal and we recognise the aspiration to nurture a sense of togetherness while reducing the financial burden on families.
“This approach is consistent with efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable education ecosystem,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted today (Jan 4).
However, Zulkiflee cautioned that several key considerations must be addressed before the policy is finalised, beginning with the need to preserve each school’s unique identity and heritage.
“Schools have their own history, background and traditions. Standardisation should not completely eliminate these identity elements. There must be room for controlled flexibility,” he emphasised.
On financial implications, he said the real issue extends beyond colours and design, as factors such as fabric, quality, market pricing and suppliers also influence costs.
“A sudden change in uniforms may increase parents’ initial expenses if the transition period is not properly planned,” he said, calling for a reasonable implementation timeline and strong cost-control mechanisms.
Zulkiflee also underscored the importance of comfort and climate suitability, noting that design and materials must be practical for classroom and co-curricular activities in Malaysia’s hot and humid weather.
At the same time, he proposed that any standardisation exercise be accompanied by stricter enforcement of existing guidelines to prevent the introduction of additional or unofficial uniforms that could further burden parents.
KGBS has urged the ministry to conduct comprehensive engagement sessions with teacher unions, parent-teacher associations, schools and other stakeholders before any decision is finalised.
“Meaningful consultation is essential to ensure that the policy is realistic, effective and accepted at the grassroots level,” Zulkiflee said.
He reaffirmed KGBS’ commitment to offering constructive views and working with the ministry to ensure that any new policy introduced brings real benefits to students, teachers and parents particularly in the Sarawak education context.
