Kuala lumpur: The government has announced the approval of 367 redevelopment projects for dilapidated school buildings across the nation, with a budget of RM9 billion allocated from 2023 to 2026. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh highlighted that this initiative is part of a larger effort to improve the safety and infrastructure of educational facilities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the allocation will cover 86 projects worth RM1.711 billion in 2023, 78 projects totaling RM1.825 billion in 2024, 124 projects costing RM4.1 billion in 2025, and 79 projects valued at RM1.384 billion in 2026. Wong emphasized that this is the most substantial investment by any government over a four-year span, aimed at accelerating the redevelopment process for the benefit of students' safety.
Wong underscored the government's dedication, shown by the increased funding and the number of approved projects, as a reflection of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's commitment to addressing the issue of dilapidated school premises in a phased manner. He made these remarks during the handover ceremony of the Education Ministry's Dilapidated School Replacement Building Project at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Coldstream.
Regarding the timeline for these projects, Wong explained that completion varies based on each project's scope, specifications, and location, with most projects expected to take two years post-approval and contractor appointment.
Focusing on SJKC Kampung Coldstream, Wong shared that the RM2.9 million replacement building project, initiated on May 24, 2024, was completed by August 6. The new facility includes modern amenities such as four classrooms, two toilet units, and an open hall for both students and teachers.
Additionally, the facility is equipped with 120 new chairs and tables, and Smart TV units provided by the state education department (JPN) and district education office (PPD). Wong noted that these enhancements would offer students a conducive learning environment and allow previously repurposed special-purpose rooms to regain their original use.