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THE distribution of MADANI Book Vouchers to over 400,000 teachers this year, announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has been warmly received by educators nationwide as a meaningful recognition of their role in shaping the nation’s future.
Muhammad Ashraf Ahmad, 36, an English teacher at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Alang Iskandar in Perak, said the initiative would ease the financial burden many teachers face when purchasing materials for their classrooms.
“I plan to use this voucher to buy reference and additional exercise books that can be lent to students, because when this initiative is implemented, the spirit of teaching becomes stronger,” he said.
Tengku Flora Tengku Kamarul Zaman, 48, a MUET teacher at the Form Six Centre of SMK Taman Selayang, described the vouchers as a sign of appreciation for teachers’ contributions. She also encouraged the government to expand support for educators in other forms.
“I hope the government continues to provide consistent support, not only in the form of vouchers but also through improved infrastructure and ongoing training, for the progress and development of a quality future generation,” she said.
Religious education teacher Rabiatul Nur Athirah Ramli, 28, from SMK Rahmat in Melaka, said the vouchers benefit not just teachers, but also students—especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
“The provision of book vouchers to teachers is a great honour and a very meaningful recognition, as it not only acknowledges the contributions of teachers but also motivates us to remain committed to improving the quality of our teaching,” she said. “I intend to use part of the voucher to purchase workbooks or additional reading materials for students, especially those who are less privileged.”
The Prime Minister had announced the initiative during the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2025 on Sunday at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. It marks the first time teachers are included in the programme, which previously provided book vouchers to students in higher education institutions.
“This year, we will be providing vouchers for teachers. For next year, we need to assess the economy first,” Anwar said.
He expressed hope that the initiative would cultivate stronger reading habits among teachers and students alike.
“This is a challenging world, and it requires people with deep knowledge. There is no developed country with people who are shallow in knowledge,” he added.
The continuation of the book voucher scheme for students has also been welcomed, with many expressing appreciation while suggesting improvements.
Wan Alani Nizam, 22, a student of Communication and Media Studies at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, said the aid helps ease financial pressure, particularly when acquiring academic texts.
“I’m very grateful that the government continues to provide vouchers to students, as this initiative does help lighten my financial burden, especially when buying reference books and academic materials,” she said. “To ensure the vouchers are used prudently, I suggest that the categories of redeemable books be set—such as academic, scholarly, self-development, motivational, and course-related books only.”
Abu Hanifah Mohamad Hanapi, 23, a student at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), also welcomed the programme but called for greater diversity in the book titles made available.
“I hope the government diversifies the types of textbooks offered to make referencing easier,” he said.
Last year, students at institutions of higher learning received MADANI Book Vouchers worth RM100, with this year's programme now expanded to benefit teachers as well. - June 2, 2025
