BANGI: In sending her wishes to students taking the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has advised them to stay focused and calm.
“Good luck to all and I wish everyone success,” she said when met at SMK Jalan Empat in Bandar Baru Bangi yesterday.
Beginning yesterday, a total of 403,637 candidates are sitting for the SPM 2022 written tests, which will last until March 15.
Fadhlina said her visit was to offer some words of encouragement to the students, just like what she did with her daughter, who is also sitting for the exam.
“As a mother, I make sure that I communicate with my daughter every day to motivate her.
“She is a little disappointed that we cannot be together physically, but I will always be with her in spirit,” the Nibong Tebal MP told Bernama.
On the SPM English listening test which was conducted on Feb 16, Fadhlina said the recording process was carried out much earlier and no social media influencer was engaged.
The issue went viral on social media after netizens questioned the credibility of a Tik Toker, who was allegedly hired to conduct the voice-over, causing candidates to struggle during the test because the individual was inarticulate.
In denying this, the Examination Board had earlier explained that the voice casters consist of teachers, lecturers, school and university students who are proficient in English.
“The Education Ministry and the board will always ensure integrity and that all aspects of validity, accuracy and credibility are taken into account in the matter,” said Fadhlina.
In another development, the ministry had completed its investigation into the vandalism incident at a school in Penang on Feb 18 after the students involved and their parents were called for a meeting on an intervention programme.
She said counselling was given to the students.
“They are our children, let’s not lose hope on them.
“Many are disappointed over the incident but they must be given a chance,” she added.
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