All forms of fundraising allowed for schools, as long as guidelines followed, says Fadhlina

SELAYANG: All forms and sources of fundraising for schools are allowed, says Fadhlina Sidek.

The Education Minister said this is so long as they comply with the guidelines on the organisation of programmes and the acceptance of donations.

“Again, the school belongs to the community and we (the Education Ministry) welcome any donations but they must follow the guidelines,” she said after attending the award ceremony for Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) 2023 top achievers on Tuesday (July 23).

Fadhlina was commenting on a fundraiser for vernacular schools organised by an alcoholic beverage company.

In a statement on Monday (July 22), the ministry said all institutions under it must adhere to the guidelines on the organisation of programmes and the acceptance of donations.

The ministry emphasised that these guidelines, among others, prohibit donations derived from gambling, tobacco, drugs, alcohol, and similar activities that could negatively impact students' intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical development.

Fadhlina added that it is the responsibility of the school administrators to ensure the guidelines are adhered to and everything runs smoothly.

When asked if vernacular schools could be exempted from the guidelines as these schools have been receiving donations from the company for years, Fadhlina said: “There must be a mechanism by which we can harmonise the situation.”

She also said the matter is still under investigation and the ministry will provide “guidance” to the school on the guidelines, which will remain enforced.

“We will help with the guidelines, including to parties who want to give that donation, so that it is consistent with our guidelines.

“I think there is no problem and there is no need for any polemic because it has been going on for so long,” she added.