JOHOR BARU: The education system must ensure that underprivileged students have the same access as privileged ones, says Johor DAP state committee member Dr Boo Cheng Hau.
He added that the Education Ministry and the Parliamentary Select Committee should set up a special commission to study possible educational reforms.
“The goal should be to ensure that underprivileged M40, B40, and rural students have the same access to a competitive, internationally recognised education as T20 students,” he said.
Dr Boo also said the government should also promote social integration among students from different educational streams by diversifying the system to encourage unity.
“Over the years, there has been a rise in parents choosing international and vernacular schools for their children. This shows a growing demand for alternative education that offers a competitive edge," added Dr Boo.
He then said that this trend may widen the gap in access to high-quality education, particularly in STEM subjects, languages, and cultural adaptability.
"Middle-income (M40) and lower-income (B40) families, especially those in rural areas, lack the same opportunities,” he said in a statement on Saturday (Sept 7).
Dr Boo acknowledged the Education Ministry's efforts to improve teacher training across all streams and ensure fairer access to matriculation programmes.
“The pilot school project in Johor, focusing on STEM and English, is a positive first step towards broader education reforms. This project is a key experiment that could pave the way for more comprehensive changes in our education system," he then said.
“However, many education policies in the past have been implemented hastily, without proper planning. A more systematic approach is needed to ensure reforms benefit all Malaysians, regardless of race, religion, or social status,” added Dr Boo.
Dr Boo also said there is a difference between vernacular and private international schools; noting that while the former offers free education and the latter is privately funded, both aim to prepare students for greater competitiveness and better employment opportunities.
He then said that the unity government should take bold steps, including recognising the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) for Independent Chinese Secondary Schools, to foster greater integration among students from different educational backgrounds.
