AN MP has urged Education Minister Datuk Dr Radzi Jidin to allow opposition MPs to visit public schools for site visits or to attend official events in line with the funds allocated to MPs.
According to Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh, with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government and opposition on political transformation and stability, all Pakatan Harapan (Pakatan) MPs had received allocations for their constituencies.
This included grants for schools if programmes, repair works, upgrades or new infrastructure were required.
“But the question is, how do I ensure that the upgrades or construction works are completed properly and are according to the set standards if I am not even allowed to enter the school?” she questioned.
“I am the legitimate MP voted by my constituents and I am accountable for explaining to the public how allocations for my constituency are being spent.
She claimed that barring opposition MPs from schools was clear indication that there was no coordination between the Cabinet and government agencies.
“Allocations are approved by the implementation coordination unit in the Prime Minister’s Department but the education ministry bars MPs from opposition parties from entering schools for site visits or to attend official school functions within their own constituencies,” she said.
Yeoh went on to claim that in her constituency, while the Barisan Nasional representatives were allowed to go in and out of the schools, she had to stand outside the school gates.
“It saddens me to see school headmasters and principals looking terrified when they see me standing at the school gate to inspect the work progress.”
With the existence of the MOU, Yeoh said that the “outdated” ban should no longer be in force. “It’s absurd and unfair,” she added.
According to a report in English daily Malay Mail, Opposition elected representatives are required to obtain the Education Ministry’s permission through the state education directors before they are allowed to enter public schools.
Federal Opposition MPs have repeatedly protested against this rule, more so after Election 2008 when their ranks widened, especially in urban areas.
This requirement was also in force when PH was in power, based on a circular issued by then education minister Maszlee Malik. – Aug 16, 2022
Main photo credit: Astro Awani
