NIBONG TEBAL: The Education Ministry has never authorised any private companies or syndicates to offer loan schemes by financial consulting firms in schools to teachers, says Fadhlina Sidek (pic).
The Education Minister stated that the ministry is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the matter, acknowledging the possibility that entry was granted by individuals rather than official permission from the Education Ministry.
"We are investigating how they gained access to Education Ministry premises. It seems likely they entered with individual consent, not official approval. School administrators, District Education Offices, and State Education Departments must ensure they have the Education Ministry's permission first," she said after launching the Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) Ceria Ke Sekolah Program at the Nibong Tebal Parliamentary Service Centre on Saturday (Feb 8).
She emphasised the importance of verifying the intentions of those entering schools to ensure safety and scrutinise any offers closely.
Fadhlina, also the Member of Parliament for Nibong Tebal, addressed this issue following reports of financial consulting firms allegedly using teachers as agents and schools as venues for financial briefing sessions.
Previously, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed an ongoing investigation into a loan-offering syndicate involving a financial consulting firm dismantled in Op Sky.
Fadhlina stated that the Education Ministry is entrusting authorities with further investigations and hopes for a swift resolution to protect public servants, especially teachers.
"The Education Ministry is fully attentive to this issue and consistently reminds all teachers and officers to be cautious and avoid involvement in such activities," she said.
Media reports on Friday (Feb 7) noted that former Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik called for clarification from the Education Ministry or any relevant parties regarding the loan offer syndicate targeting public servants, particularly teachers. - Bernama
