Kuala lumpur: The empowerment of teachers through training aligned with current educational demands, particularly in information technology (IT) and artificial intelligence (AI), must be a central focus in Malaysia’s upcoming Budget 2026, scheduled for tabling on Oct 10. As such, Dr Anuar Ahmad, an education expert from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), said it is important to have dedicated funding for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programmes to enhance the nation’s education system.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Anuar emphasized that the quality of education heavily depends on the capability of teachers. He highlighted the need for conducive and effective learning opportunities and urged that the national Budget 2026 prioritize empowering educators. He pointed out the urgent requirement to upgrade teachers’ skills to keep pace with digital-based learning aligned with technological advancements, including AI, to ensure Malaysia’s education system remains globally competitive.
Dr Anuar noted that Malaysia has approximately 450,000 teachers across various levels, many of whom received their foundational training 10 to 30 years ago. He stressed that retraining in IT, AI, and digital skills is essential for teachers to deliver more relevant and effective teaching. He advocated for the allocation of special funds for retraining and skill enhancement programmes in the upcoming budget.
As the deputy director of the UKM Institute for Development and Inclusive Advancement Malaysia (MINDA UKM), Dr Anuar underscored the importance of instilling a STEM culture starting from primary school. He highlighted the need to attract more students to science and mathematics, which are currently experiencing declining interest. He also acknowledged that while AI is a new frontier, some schools are not fully prepared, and he hopes targeted budget allocations can address these gaps.
Dr Anuar called for an increase in the number of teachers through new appointments and adequate salary provisions, noting an ongoing shortage in certain subject areas. He emphasized the goal of achieving a ratio of one teacher per 25 students in every classroom, which would allow teachers to focus and deliver more effective teaching. Additionally, he recommended greater budget allocations for improving school infrastructure, including building new schools in strategic locations and increasing the number of classrooms in existing schools. He also advocated for the phased installation of CCTV cameras to ensure student safety, thereby boosting parental confidence in schools.
Addressing the wellbeing of students from the B40 income group, Dr Anuar urged attention to the Supplementary Food Programme (RMT) and school health services, stressing their importance in maintaining the health of students, especially at the primary school level. He noted that RMT and health services are vital for students from B40 and M40 families to benefit and maintain better health.
Meanwhile, National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) secretary-general Fouzi Singon expressed optimism that the government will continue providing the Early Schooling Aid (BAP), particularly since the new school session often coincides with the Aidilfitri celebration. He stated that the NUTP remains positive that the Ministry of Finance will ensure the Ministry of Education receives the highest allocation in Budget 2026.