BUKIT MERTAJAM: No decision has been made to discontinue the construction of the new SJK(T) Sungai Bakap building, the Education Ministry said today.
Its minister, Fadhlina Sidek, said discussions with the stakeholders were ongoing.
"I want to thank everyone for their concern with regard to this issue.
"From day to day, we have discussions on the matter. Just two weeks ago, I met with the school principal and representatives for discussions. Today, we will meet to discuss again.
"So discussions are ongoing and no decision has been reached to discontinue the construction of the new SJK(T) Sungai Bakap building.
"The priority is our children's education," she told newsmen after the launch of the Smart Classroom programme at SK Mengkuang here today.
On Thursday, Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy expressed disappointment over the Penang Education Department's decision to discontinue the construction of the new SJK(T) Sungai Bakap building.
He said the project could not be abandoned as it had received an allocation from the federal government.
Ramasamy's response came on the heels of a letter, written by the state Education Department on March 22, 2023, informing the school headmaster that the new school might not be a reality.
Asked about the letter by the state Education Department, Fadhlina said it was a normal process.
"The letter is just a view, a part of the process. There are no issues.
"The other process is to ensure that issues of concern are addressed promptly."
Earlier, Fadhlina thanked Yayasan Aeon Malaysia (MAF) for allocating RM2 million for the Smart Classroom programme.
In collaboration with Yayasan Didik Negara, MAF has implemented the Smart Classroom programme in 40 secondary and primary schools nationwide to benefit tens of thousands of students. The aim is to provide quality education by restoring and upgrading classroom infrastructure.
Asked about the progress of the Digital Education Policy, Fadhlina said it was in the final phases.
"Once completed, it will bring about huge benefits to the digital ecosystem."