Education minister: Bumiputera make bulk of over 27,000 school dropouts, ministry focusing on needs-based aid

AI Summary

Over 27,000 students have dropped out of Malaysian public schools, with the majority being Bumiputera. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek revealed 1,496 primary school dropouts (1,275 Bumiputera) and 25,626 secondary school dropouts (19,347 Bumiputera). The ministry is addressing this issue with a needs-based approach, prioritizing students most in need regardless of background. The Zero Student Drop Out pilot program aims to identify the root causes of this issue. While retention programs have marginally reduced dropout rates in 2024, it remains a concern.