EDUCATION Minister Fadhlina Sidek has refuted the claim that the construction of a classroom costs up to RM2.6 million.

She said every project under the Education Ministry is evaluated according to a process that follows the guidelines and standards set by the government.

“The allegation is inaccurate because the issue we want to emphasise is the work process,” she said.

“There is a work process that must be followed and the scope of work, consultants and certain standards that the ministry must achieve in continuing the project.”

Last week, Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin urged the government to review the process of appointing contractors for school maintenance and claimed that the construction cost of a classroom is between RM1.8 million and RM2.6 million.

When met after the Education Ministry’s Integrity Forum and Corruption-Free Pledge in Putrajaya today, Fadhlina said a media statement will be issued to address the allegation soon.

On the suggestion made by Umno Youth to implement political education programmes in school, she said the ministry always emphasises matters related to the understanding of democracy and nationhood.

“Emphasis is given to important topics of constitutional democracy, including in the subject of Pengajian Am. We are also looking at interaction programmes to increase students’ understanding of democracy,” she said.

Prior to this, Umno Youth chief Muhamad Akmal Saleh said it plans to host programmes for students in schools and higher learning institutions to increase their knowledge of politics.

He said it is crucial to prepare those who will be eligible to vote in the next general election. – Bernama, April 11, 2023.