Education minister Fadhlina Sidek said this will enable Cikgu Din, who is teaching in Sarawak, to fulfil his teaching duties while also being close to his wife, Bernama reported.

She said discussions between Cikgu Din and the Sarawak and Kelantan education departments, along with the ministry, had progressed smoothly.

“Let us pray for Cikgu Din to be given strength and patience and for his wife’s recovery,” she said after officiating the Madani Education Carnival at Sekolah Kebangsaan Sungai Bakap, Nibong Tebal, today.

She was commenting on the plight of Cikgu Din, whose repeated pleas for a transfer to care for his terminally ill wife were denied by higher-ups in the education department.

On Thursday, the ministry announced that it had taken immediate action to assist Cikgu Din by granting him leave to be with his wife.

Fadhlina refuted claims that the government only acted after the issue went viral on social media.

She said the ministry would give full attention to all issues, taking into account the relevant circumstances.

On another matter, Fadhlina urged all parties to adhere to the guidelines issued by the ministry regarding sexual harassment in educational institutions.

She placed importance on schools being safe spaces and the need for a supportive environment for all students.

“We urge schools to ensure complaints are handled with integrity, so there is no need for anyone to be afraid to come forward.

“Follow the complaint process, as outlined in the guidelines.”