KAJANG: Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek wants schools to discuss with their respective parent-teacher association (PTA) before organising a lavish school graduation ceremony.
The minister made the call when parents, including actress Adrea Abdullah, questioned schools' decision to make it a trend to organise graduation ceremonies at five-star hotels with fees ranging from RM150 to RM200 per student.
"Engaging with the PTA is essential, focusing on resolving issues at the school level. It is imperative to consider objections and differing views.
"The ministry encourages simple yet joyous and appreciative ceremonies, particularly for our children," Fadhlina told reporters when asked about the matter.
Adrea highlighted the parents' predicament, emphasising the burden of spending up to RM500 for such events.
She noted that unwillingness to pay could make children feel pressured and embarrassed for missing out on events with their friends.
Expressing her concerns through a Facebook video, Adrea shared her experience, pointing out instances where schools mandate attendance at graduation ceremonies without prior discussion with families.
Displeased with such directives, she questioned the decision, suggesting it sidelines the voices and current situations of families prioritising other pressing commitments over costly ceremonies.
National Parent-Teacher Association (PIBGN) president Associate Professor Dr Mohamad Ali Hassan suggested that schools and PTAs be more economical due to the uncertain economic situation and use funds for more essential purposes.
He also said the trend of extravagant spending by organising graduation ceremonies in hotels should be avoided as it could have many negative implications for everyone involved, from students and parents to the school itself.
