PETALING JAYA: Plans by the government to slash education subsidies for children from wealthy families have courted flak from Bersatu’s associate wing.
Bersatu associate wing information chief R Sri Sanjeevan said the idea to reduce education subsidies for the rich goes against efforts to develop an inclusive national education system.
In a statement on Wednesday (Oct 2), Sanjeevan called the proposal a populist move aimed at garnering short-term political mileage.
He also noted the definition of wealthy families should be clearer, as unclear parameters could lead to injustice and manipulation.
"Such a proposal can bring about bigger international implications, which could undermine Malaysia’s international image and go against our commitments towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which emphasises quality education for all."
Sanjeevan said the government's proposal is not only a serious policy mistake but could also pose a threat to Malaysia's future.
"This proposal can undermine unity and competitiveness among the people. A strong public education is the core of a competitive nation," he added.
On Monday (Sept 30), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hinted at the possibility of ending subsidies for the children of the ultra-rich attending government-funded schools.
According to Anwar, Budget 2025 will benefit those genuinely in need and will cut subsidies for the ultra-rich.
Budget 2025 will be unveiled on Oct 18.
