Parents in Kulai, Johor, have expressed relief at receiving government schooling aid, even as the new academic year is already underway.
Supermarket cashier Siti Nasiha Sidek, 35, said the one-off Early Schooling Aid (BAP) would be used for her two children, aged 12 and 16.
“Although RM150 per child seems little, it is actually sufficient for us,” she said adding that she planned to buy new sports attire for her children as they had outgrown their old sets.
“This is our third time receiving the aid and it truly helps reduce the financial pressure.”
Assistant medical officer Mohd Kairul Nizam Sahar, 42, said the initiative was a significant help for his two children, aged 10 and 12.
“For me, aid like this is very good because it helps ease the burden on parents.
“At the moment, my children are still using their old school uniforms as they are still in good condition.
“We will make new purchases gradually, prioritising what is necessary.”
Housewife Norhayati Abd Kahar, 52, said the RM150 would help cover additional expenses for her 11-year-old, such as new stationery.
“We have been receiving the BAP for the past five years since my child first started school.
“Though schooling preparations were done earlier, the BAP serves as a standby for additional items,” she added.
The aid was distributed by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, who is also Kulai MP, at SK Putra Utama.
Teo said RM87.9mil had been allocated for Johor this year, benefitting 586,153 students.
In Kulai alone, 58,264 students will benefit from the RM8.7mil set aside.
“My office consistently ensures that education is prioritised, with RM5.4mil channelled to schools in this district from 2022 to 2025.
“In that period, SK Putra Utama received RM145,190 for 10 Android TVs, a covered walkway, upgrades to special education classrooms and the purchase of canteen tables and chairs,” she added.
