She said under the 2025 budget, the government has approved the construction of 44 schools, the highest number in the past four years. She said 26 were approved last year, and nine each in 2023 and 2022.

Fadhlina was responding to concerns raised by parents on social media regarding overcrowded classrooms, with some Year One classes in urban schools having up to 50 pupils.

She said the ministry would implement appropriate measures, including relocating students to other schools if necessary. “This is part of our commitment to ensure students can learn in a conducive environment,” she said after attending a PKR Chinese New Year celebration in her constituency of Nibong Tebal.

On a separate matter, Fadhlina said children rescued from charity homes linked to GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd would be enrolled in national schools when the new school session begins on Feb 17.

These children previously attended special classes fully managed by the ministry at designated shelters. “We are still gathering data on them as the special classes were temporarily halted to facilitate court proceedings. Once all the processes are completed, I believe they should have no issues resuming their education,” she added.