NIBONG TEBAL: The scheme to bring in English teachers from Singapore to Malaysia is proof of the close diplomatic cooperation between both countries.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, in welcoming the move, said what Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was referring to was volunteer teachers from Singapore who would be placed in poor urban, outskirt and rural areas, including Sabah and Sarawak.
This appointment does not involve any additional cost burden as some parties have suggested.
The services of these volunteer teachers will be paid for by the Singapore government.
"This initiative provides an opportunity for students, teachers and schools to gain exposure to good teaching and learning practices (PdP) and innovation.
"This kind of initiative is always implemented by the ministry by involving the exchange of teachers from developed countries such as Korea, Australia and the United States," she told newsmen when met at SK Sungai Bakap here today.
She was asked on the scheme to bring in English teachers from Singapore to Malaysia.
Last week, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government was not considering hiring Singaporean teachers.
"It is not true; what I discussed with (Singapore Prime Minister) Lawrence Wong is a possible scheme where teachers from Singapore assist and volunteer to go to rural areas in Sabah and Sarawak to teach English.
"Listen first, instead of harping on social media with the wrong facts.
"(You) can ask first (without making assumptions)," he was quoted as saying.