BANGI: The media plays an important role as a reflection of realities on the ground by linking policies formulated at the ministerial level to actual situations occurring in schools and communities, including in rural and island areas, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said.
Fact-based and constructive media criticism is not a threat, but rather part of the decision-making process in a healthy democracy, she added.
"Honestly, fact-based criticism is the voice of the people. It must be accepted with an open heart because that is where improvements can be made.
"Any leader must face this maturely and have the courage to provide answers,” she said when delivering her speech at her ministry’s media networking night on Tuesday (Dec 16).
Also present were Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh, Education Ministry secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, and Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad.
Fadhlina also said that education reforms are neither short-term nor easy, but require perseverance, honesty and courage to face challenges and pressures, including post-pandemic impacts and public confidence issues surrounding the education system.
She said the reform is anchored on the principle of justice, encompassing equitable access to education for students in urban and rural areas, children from underprivileged families, as well as continuous support for teachers who shoulder the great responsibility of shaping the future of the younger generation.
According to her, over the past three years, the Education Ministry has not only focused on restoring the system but also on rebuilding trust among students, parents and the community in educational institutions.
Fadhlina also shared her experiences from visiting schools in rural areas, which she said provided a clear picture of geographical challenges, facilities and the need for community support to ensure students continue attending school.
She stressed that the implementation of education policies, including initiatives related to compulsory schooling, requires close cooperation among the ministry, schools, parents, communities and the media to ensure that formulated policies truly have an impact on the people.
Fadhlina also expressed her gratitude for the continued trust placed in her to carry on her responsibilities as a member of the Cabinet, while reaffirming her commitment to further strengthening the national education reform agenda.
She said the trust given will be fully utilised to ensure that every education policy and initiative is implemented more effectively, guided by the principles of justice, integrity and the best interests of students, teachers and the entire education ecosystem.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday retained several existing ministers in the MADANI Government Cabinet to ensure continuity within the team in driving economic growth and addressing public concerns. Among those retained were Fadhlina and her deputy, Wong Kah Woh. — Bernama
