After Chinese school aid, Umno Youth wants similar raise for religious schools

Umno Youth has called on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to increase the allocation for religious schools, saying it would be based on the principle of fairness.

Citing a similar allocation received by Chinese private schools, wing leader Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh said he hoped the prime minister would consider the proposal.

He said that if DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke can announce additional school aid to Chinese private schools, then religious schools should also enjoy increased aid.

“RM300,000 for each Chinese private school (but only) RM20,000 for religious school aid grant.

“I hope that on the principle of fairness, the PM can increase allocations to public religious schools and other private schools as well.

“If Loke can announce an increase in additional aid to Chinese private schools from RM250,000 to RM300,000 this year, why not other schools as well?" he asked in a Facebook post today.

On Feb 5, Loke announced that 63 Chinese private schools would receive an allocation of RM18.9 million in 2024.

He said with the increased allocation, each of the 63 Chinese private schools will receive RM300,000.

Last year, the special allocation from the government was RM15.75 million, with each school receiving RM250,000.

The minister said the special provision is a sign that the government understands the significant financial challenges faced by Chinese private schools. - Mkini