Selangor’s decision to declare September 1 a special holiday has drawn mixed reactions from educators, with some teachers pointing out that the date falls within the ongoing school term break.
Under the Education Ministry’s 2026 Academic Calendar, Selangor is among the states in Group B and is currently observing its second term break from August 29 to September 6. Schools are scheduled to reopen on September 7.
The timing has left some teachers disappointed as the special holiday does not provide them with an additional day off, given that schools are already closed during the period.
A teacher on Threads, known as @portklangezaiza, said she had been waiting for the Selangor Menteri Besar’s announcement on the holiday, only to find that September 1 had been selected.
“I waited for the MB’s speech just to find out when the holiday would be. I was disappointed when it was announced for September 1 because schools are already on holiday. Why not think of everyone? At least Wednesday or Friday would have been better. It could have extended the break and benefited teachers too,” she wrote.
Another teacher jokingly described the announcement as disappointing for educators in Selangor, as the chosen date already falls within the school holidays.
“An additional holiday that disappoints teachers in Selangor. Wednesday is already not the best day, and we do not even have a full seven-period schedule. Why not Wednesday or Friday?” said @haeloconio.
However, the complaints also prompted debate online, with some users arguing that the holiday would still benefit other members of the workforce, particularly working parents whose children are already enjoying the school break.
One user said they were grateful for the additional holiday despite not being a teacher or student, as it would give them more time with their children during the school holidays.
“I’m not a teacher or a student, but I’m grateful for this additional holiday. At least I can spend more time with my children during their school break,” the user said.
Another user said choosing September 1 could allow working parents to enjoy a longer break with their children, turning the occasion into an opportunity for family time.
The Selangor government had earlier announced September 1 as a special holiday in conjunction with the state’s success in emerging as the overall champion of the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA).
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari made the announcement following Selangor’s strong performance at the Games, where its contingent topped the medal tally to secure overall victory.
While the announcement was intended as a reward and celebration of the state’s sporting achievement, its timing during the school holidays has nevertheless sparked a light-hearted debate among teachers and members of the public over who stands to benefit most from the extra day off.
