PUTRAJAYA: The government has yet to decide on removing subsidised fees for children from wealthy families enrolled in secondary science schools, says unity government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil.
Speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press conference, Fahmi said the matter is still under review.
At this point in time, no decision has been made (to stop education subsidies for children from wealthy families), and it is still under discussion,
he said.
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In the case of education, other factors need to be considered before making a decision,
he said.
Last Monday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim suggested that it is unfair for senior public servants, political leaders, and affluent businessmen to benefit from subsidised education fees for their children.
He said this was a form of subsidy leakage and that the government needed to bring it to a halt.
Separately, Fahmi said the government is reviewing the National Strategic Plan to Combat the Double Burden of Malnutrition Among Children before making a full announcement on its implementation.
“The Cabinet today received the latest report from the health ministry and education ministry on the efforts taken and strategic plans.
The prime minister has requested several matters to be reviewed,
he said, adding that the issue is something that Anwar holds close to his heart.
Fahmi also provided updates on the 622 children rescued from charity homes linked to Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH), saying that the authorities had obtained court orders to provide protection for the children.
However, he said other issues about GISBH were not raised at the meeting, including whether it practised deviant teachings.
Questions regarding this should be referred to the state muftis. From what we know, several muftis have already issued fatwas regarding GISBH,
he said, referring to Selangor, Pahang and Perlis.
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