KUALA LUMPUR: Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said that the decision to abolish the Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) in 2021 and the Pentaksiran Tingkatan Tiga (PT3) in 2022 was made by her predecessor, Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin, and not by her.
"I've noticed that many members of parliament are still concerned about issues related to examinations. Many are asking and urging for the return of these exams, especially following the abolition of UPSR and PT3," she said during the Committee Stage of the 2025 Supply Bill for the Education Ministry in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.
"I want to make it clear: it was not my decision to abolish these exams; that was done by Putrajaya (MP for Putrajaya, Radzi). My approach is to work with the existing system, particularly the assessment system we have now," she said.
Fadhlina said that the current focus should be on reinforcing the existing framework, including empowering teachers.
In response to Fadhlina's remarks, Radzi quickly interjected to offer further clarification on the matter.
Expanding on the topic, Fadhlina affirmed that the ministry's stance was clear: continue with the present education policy, prioritising School-Based Assessment (PBS).
She explained that the implementation of PBS was part of the ministry's broader efforts to foster a more holistic education system.
"I want to emphasise that exams should not overshadow the development of education. What matters most is seeing our children grow and receive a well-rounded education," she said.
"That's why I agree with the concerns raised by some MPs regarding extracurricular activities such as sports and uniformed bodies — these are all essential components of a comprehensive educational experience. All of these elements play a crucial role in the development of our children," she added.