Repairs On 150 Schools Completed Under First Economic Stimulus Package

ALOR SETAR, May 21 (Bernama) -- Deputy Education minister Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong said upgrading work on 150 schools throughout the country had been completed with financial aid under the First Economic Stimulus Package.

Wee said under the stimulus package, the government had allocated RM50 million to religious, Chinese, Indian and other schools that needed aid.

He added that most of the schools that needed repairs were old wooden schools that were either damaged or those which had structures that were not safe for pupils.

"The ministry will ensure that schools that have undergone refurbishment are maintained well," he told reporters after opening Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (C) Boon Teik in Tokai on Friday.

He added that the allocation under the stimulus package was used wisely to resolve many problems faced by schools throughout the country.

Wee said the government does not have a set quota to undertake refurbishment and repairs to schools but would give priority to applications received from the respective state Education Departments.

"The ministry always adopts a pragmatic approach and made decisions through consultation and discussion with the parties concerned because we find it the most effective way to resolve problems," he said