Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Education (MOE) aims to complete the nationwide implementation of the one-session school system within five years, according to Minister Fadhlina Sidek. She stated that, to date, more than 9,000 out of over 10,000 schools nationwide have already adopted the one-session system, with the remaining schools facing challenges due to high student density.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina Sidek highlighted that the development of education in the country is progressing well, with over 9,000 schools having achieved the one-session school system. She shared these insights during the INTAN Minister’s Conversation (IMC): Education Instils Leadership, Shaping the Future Generation, held at the National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN) Southern Region. The event was also attended by Azman Adnan, director-general of Education, and Datuk Anesee Ibrahim, deputy director-general of Public Services (Development).

Fadhlina underscored that factors affecting the implementation of the one-session school system include the construction of new schools and the repair of dilapidated ones. She emphasized the need to consider constraints such as the location, premises, and management of the schools themselves.

In addition to the one-session school system, Fadhlina addressed concerns about electronic cigarette or vape addiction among students. She stressed that the ministry takes the issue seriously and is committed to implementing proactive measures to curb the phenomenon, which reportedly affects over 20,000 school students nationwide.

Fadhlina mentioned that the issue was raised in the Dewan Rakyat and that the ministry has already provided a thorough response. She affirmed the ministry’s stance on not compromising on the vaping issue, noting its significant impact on children. The approach includes raising awareness, implementing disciplinary actions, and taking proactive steps to curb the spread of vaping among students. The ministry is focused on ensuring the health and discipline of students, with an emphasis on educating them about the dangers of vaping.

The IMC programme organized by INTAN aims to provide civil servants with exposure to inclusive leadership in addressing the challenges of social, economic, and political development.