Kuala Lumpur: The Education Ministry’s (MOE) Student Tracking System will be enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) technology to improve the effectiveness of strategies for tackling student dropout issues. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh announced that the upgraded tracking system would enable schools to detect at-risk students, those who have dropped out, and children who may face barriers to accessing education at an earlier stage.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wong emphasized that early detection would allow the ministry to implement targeted interventions and take action much earlier. He stated that MOE will not compromise on issues related to attendance, dropouts, and access to quality education for every student, regardless of their background. This remains a key priority for the ministry at all times. Wong made these remarks during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat in response to a question from Azli Yusof (PH-Shah Alam) on the proactive steps taken by the ministry to address issues related to attendance, dropout, and access to quality education for all Malaysian children.

Wong further noted that the MOE has implemented the Ziarah Cakna Programme to raise awareness of the importance of education, academic pathways, and career guidance for at-risk students. Additionally, the ministry has introduced the Guidelines for Managing At-Risk Students in Schools to provide structured support.

In response to Azli’s supplementary question on overcrowded classrooms, Wong explained that according to the 2024 Guidelines and Regulations for Building Planning issued by the Economy Ministry, the standard classroom capacity is set at 30 students. However, considerations such as workspace, distance between chairs and desks from windows, and student and teacher movement allow for a capacity of up to 35 students per class.

For the construction of new schools and additional blocks, the MOE conducts a needs analysis, taking into account existing school capacity, population density, and available land for expansion. Wong highlighted that under the Fifth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan, RM100 million has been allocated for the construction of additional school buildings using the Industrial Building System.