She also said that the measures would not affect beneficiaries of the Supplementary Food Programme, which she described as essential for students’ nutritional intake.

Fadhlina added that repairs to dilapidated schools and building maintenance would continue as usual.

“We do not want the public to feel anxious or worried. Although the call for cost-saving measures is very important and critical at this time, I would like to assure everyone that it will not affect or disrupt matters closely related to the ministry’s priorities,” she said when met by reporters here today.

Fadhlina said the ministry would also ensure that any cost-saving measures do not affect the roll-out of the new curriculum next year, or the intake of six-year-olds into Year 1.

On May 29, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hinted that Budget 2027 would be drafted with greater emphasis on cost-saving measures amid mounting global economic pressures affecting the country’s fiscal position, including for the education and higher education ministries.

Anwar, who is also finance minister, said global geopolitical uncertainties including escalating tensions following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran have significantly affected the global economy, thus requiring more prudent government spending.