Rabat:The allocation for repairing and maintaining all types of schools has been increased from RM1 billion to RM2 billion under Budget 2027.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also serves as Finance Minister, announced the allocation increase for Sekolah Kebangsaan to RM900 million, Chinese national-type schools (SJKC) to RM100 million, and Tamil national-type schools (SJKT) to RM50 million. Despite the smaller student population in SJKT, their infrastructure's poor condition requires urgent attention.

The allocation for sekolah agama rakyat, tahfiz institutions, and pondok schools registered under JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) has been raised to RM200 million. This allocation now includes operational assistance for these institutions.

Nearly RM1.3 billion is designated for upgrading 682 dilapidated schools, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak. Additionally, 3,500 new classrooms are anticipated to be completed by year's end using the Industrialised Building System (IBS) to accommodate an expected 500,000 Year One pupils next year, including over 70,000 six-year-olds.

New schools, preschool buildings, and facilities are also planned, such as at SK Seri Chemor in Ipoh, Perak, and the Bandar Serenia School Complex in Sepang, Selangor. Other projects include reconstructing SJKT Ladang Pamol in Kluang, Johor; SJKC Bandar Mahkota Cheras; and a preschool at SK Bulu Silou in Keningau, Sabah. A new matriculation college is being constructed in Marang, Terengganu.

To foster community involvement in enhancing school environments, the Tabung Sumbangan Wang Awam Sekolah (School Public Contribution Fund) will be improved to allow parents, alumni, and the community to contribute voluntarily for school operations, repairs, equipment, and student programs. Cash contributions to the fund qualify for a tax deduction of up to 10 percent of aggregate income.