Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia suspends school programmes using freelance speakers pending review
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has ordered an immediate halt to all school programmes involving external speakers without formal employment arrangements. The suspension comes as the ministry investigates concerns about speaker credentials and oversight.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — The Ministry of Education has suspended all school-based programmes featuring freelance speakers, effective immediately, pending a comprehensive review of vetting procedures and accountability measures.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek issued the directive following allegations regarding the credentials and backgrounds of external speakers engaged by educational institutions. The suspension applies across all government and government-aided schools nationwide.
The ministry said it will conduct a thorough assessment of existing speaker engagement protocols to ensure proper verification of qualifications and suitability. Schools have been instructed to cease booking external speakers until new guidelines are established and approved.
In the interim, the ministry will work with school administrators to develop enhanced screening procedures and documentation requirements for any future external speaker programmes. Officials indicated that revised protocols would be issued within weeks, with emphasis on protecting student safety and educational standards.
The suspension underscores the government's commitment to maintaining oversight of activities involving external parties within school environments, officials said.