PETALING JAYA: Upgrading and repair works in schools are based on the requests in applications made by the schools themselves, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
"At the same time, the allocation given to all schools under the ministry include the maintenance of toilets and other (facilities)," she said in reply to Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (BN-Ayer Hitam) in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Sept 19).
Earlier, Dr Wee posed questions and recommendations to Fadhlina regarding upgrading of schools in dire need.
His recommendations included using the RM1.4bil allocation for all schools regardless of location and status.
He also said priority should be given to schools deemed unsafe following verification from the Public Works Department and schools with wiring issues that pose risks to students.
"I would like to know the government's position on the RM1.4bil allocation given. Will it be used to rectify the wiring system, which is a critical component in... the schools?
"Thirdly, if upgrading is carried out, will it be directed via the state Education Department or the school management board? What is the method used?" he asked.
Fadhlina said channelling of the allocations was mostly handled by the state Education Departments and district Education offices.
However, she added that the ministry was also looking at other options.
"We are exploring how to ensure allocations are given via parent-teacher associations or school management boards.
"We need to (decide) how monitoring (of this channel) can be implemented," she said.
