KUALA KANGSAR – Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed that education and the upgrading of school facilities remain central pillars of the MADANI government’s agenda, even as Malaysia grapples with a worsening global energy crunch.
Speaking after a morning visit to Clifford National High School, where he met teachers, current pupils and former students, the prime minister acknowledged the economic strain caused by the crisis.
However, he stressed that small-scale improvement projects directly affecting students’ daily needs such as repairs to basic facilities must be fast-tracked without delay.
“This priority cannot be compromised even in times of crisis, because the future of children cannot be sacrificed,” he said.
The global energy situation has deteriorated sharply due to ongoing conflict in West Asia. The disruption to oil and gas supplies has triggered widespread market uncertainty, and Malaysia has not been immune to the ripple effects.
In response, the MADANI government has taken several steps to shield ordinary citizens from the worst of the price shocks. RON95 petrol continues to be sold at a low, controlled rate, and diesel subsidies remain in place for eligible recipients.
Officials say these measures are designed to balance two urgent needs: protecting the public from immediate hardship whilst securing the nation’s long-term energy supply.
During his address, Anwar also turned to the philosophy behind Malaysian education. He reminded educators and students that learning must go beyond examination results.
“In this challenging world, knowledge without values can lead astray if not guided by manners and humanity,” the Prime Minister said. He called for a renewed focus on critical thinking, moral cultivation, and mastery across multiple fields of knowledge.
On the same occasion, Anwar announced a government allocation of RM296,000 for renovation work on the first hospital building in Kuala Kangsar. The colonial-era structure is currently used by SMK Clifford, a secondary school.
Officials said the project serves two purposes: preserving local historical heritage whilst creating more comfortable and conducive learning facilities for students.
The Prime Minister ended his visit on an optimistic note. He expressed confidence that with clear priorities in education, coupled with public understanding and collective effort, Malaysia would weather the current trials.
“God willing, with a clear priority on education as well as understanding and togetherness in facing global challenges, we will be able to weather this test together while continuing to build a more just, resilient and value-based future for the country,” he said.
The renovation approval has been welcomed by local education groups, who hope it will set a precedent for similar heritage-school conversions across Perak.
