Vidyananthan questioned the status of several delayed Tamil school projects. — Filepic
AGEING facilities, limited digital access and poor infrastructure at Tamil schools in Johor have raised concerns over the level of support given to the Indian community, said Kahang assemblyman R. Vidyananthan.
He said these schools still play a key role in early education for Indian children, but many continue to face basic challenges.
“Several SJK(T), especially those in plantation areas, still lack proper facilities and digital access,” he said during the debate session at the state assembly sitting at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar.
“Some even face poor road conditions on their way to school, which become worse during rainy days and the monsoon season.”
He urged the state government to consider providing special allocations to support maintenance works at Tamil schools.
“I understand that education falls under the Federal Government, but the state can still assist with essential upgrades and digital classroom programmes so that these students are not left behind,” he added.
Vidyananthan also sought updates on the status of several Tamil schools whose development projects had stalled.
“What is the status of these schools since development has stalled despite land already being allocated?
“These include SJK(T) Ladang Pamol in Kluang, which continues to operate from a SJK(C) while awaiting its own building, SJK(T) Ladang Sungai Muar, SJK(T) Ladang Mengkibol, SJK(T) Ladang Sembrong, SJK(T) Ladang Mados and SJK(T) Ladang Elaeis.”
He also proposed for the state government to offer scholarships to outstanding Indian students as a gesture of educational equity.
“Previously, Yayasan Pelajaran Johor provided such assistance. If possible, I hope the state can clarify how many Indian students have received state-funded scholarships so far.”
