NIBONG TEBAL: The Education Ministry may extend the book voucher programme to teachers in the future following its successful implementation for students last year.
Minister Fadhlina Sidek said she will present a paper on the matter to the Cabinet and also inform it of the programme's success last year in achieving a 100% redemption rate.
"This is a significant achievement, and it was not easy, but we managed to accomplish it thanks to the commitment of all parties, especially the teachers.
"What is most impressive is that we succeeded in achieving 100% redemption in rural areas, which I think is a testament to the strong commitment involved," she told a press conference after presenting mock cheques for Penang-level Early Schooling Aid (BAP) cash assistance at SK Seri Tasek here on Friday (Jan 17).
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Fadhlina said she would discuss the proposal for teachers with the Finance Minister and hoped the programme could continue.
She credited state Education Departments nationwide for ensuring that all recipients redeemed the vouchers.
She said the programme has a direct impact on the reading culture and on improving reading habits among children.
Each primary pupil gets RM50 in vouchers, while secondary and tertiary students receive RM100.
The programme was introduced under the Madani Book Voucher Programme on May 30, and vouchers could be redeemed until the end of the year.
On BAP, Fadhlina hoped parents will make full use of the money for their children's school needs before the new session.
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A total of RM33.9mil was allocated for BAP to be distributed to 226,004 primary and secondary school students in Penang.
Fadhlina advised parents to monitor their children for their safety during the school holidays.
"Safety is extremely important, I hope parents will always look after the health and safety of their children," she said.
She said although it is the holidays, children should not neglect their studies.
For those moving up a grade, especially transitioning to secondary school, it was important to prepare for the change, she added.
"As for students taking the SPM, they need to put in even more effort in preparing for the coming school year," she said.
