THE Education Ministry wants further information from the Election Commission (EC) regarding an allegation that teachers were called to attend an election briefing session during school hours. 

Education Minister Radzi Jidin said the real duty of teachers during school hours is to be in their respective schools.

“I think the EC understands enough about teachers’ duties and responsibilities. It’s just that in this case, I want to check what the context is.

“We always work closely with the EC to ensure that we support the work of the EC, but at the same time the real duties of the teachers are in schools,” he told reporters after launching the sepak takraw strengthening programme in Putrajaya today. 

A news portal reported a complaint from a Parent-Teacher Association representative of a Kajang school who claimed the EC “forced” teachers to attend a general election briefing session during school hours, which meant most teachers were unable to work.

“If it is necessary to give a briefing to the teachers, then we will detail the time for them to attend the session, this is to ensure that the real work at the school is uninterrupted,” Radzi said.

He also said the ministry will work with the EC to find a middle ground regarding the matter. – Bernama, September 15, 2022.