Penang: The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) has urged the government to reinstate the 300-litre monthly fuel subsidy quota under the Budi Madani (BUDI95) programme for teachers in conjunction with Teachers' Day tomorrow. Its president Aminuddin Awang highlighted that many teachers utilize their individual BUDI95 quota for official duties, such as transporting students to various activities and competitions at different levels, which leads to the rapid depletion of their subsidized fuel quota.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aminuddin expressed the need for the government to reconsider restoring the 300-litre quota as a gesture of appreciation for teachers. He conveyed this request to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim through an official letter sent last month. Aminuddin emphasized that teachers bear not only fuel costs but also spend their own money on stationery, personal laptops, and internet services for teaching and official duties.

Aminuddin further advocated for the enactment of a Teachers Protection Act to ensure that educators receive adequate legal protection while performing their duties. He noted that teachers encounter increasing challenges, including the risk of legal action from parents over their efforts in educating and disciplining students.

He remarked that teachers are tasked with educating and disciplining students to the best of their abilities, yet they face potential legal challenges. In light of this year's Teachers' Day, Aminuddin expressed hope that the government would consider enacting a specific law to safeguard teachers in their professional responsibilities.