MCA president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong has urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to remove Education Minister Datuk Fadhlina Sidek, calling for stronger leadership within the ministry as a cabinet reshuffle looms.
Speaking at the MCA general assembly, Wee — a former deputy education minister — said the ministry required a more capable leader to drive reforms and ensure responsible use of its substantial annual budget. He claimed that public dissatisfaction with the ministry’s performance cut across race and socioeconomic background.
“This is the sentiment shared by most people on the ground. We need someone steady, visionary and bold enough to carry out reforms in this crucial ministry. The power is in your hands, Prime Minister. Please act,” he said.
Wee criticised Fadhlina’s tenure as ineffective and accused the ministry of placing “unprecedented obstacles” before Chinese primary schools. He cited the long-delayed construction of SJKC Kuek Ho Yao — part of the 10+6 Chinese school projects approved in 2017 — which he said was set back by site changes and administrative delays after the Pakatan Harapan government came into power.
Despite raising the matter repeatedly in Parliament, he said Fadhlina failed to give clear answers and at one point responded angrily.
Wee also questioned the ministry’s recent directive requiring the school-building committee to register with the Registrar of Societies (ROS), calling it an unexpected and unnecessary departure from long-established administrative norms.
“For decades, these committees have been appointed by the ministry and later transition into Boards of Governors. There has never been a need for ROS registration. Why is the ministry suddenly creating difficulties for Chinese schools?” he asked.
He further claimed interference in the management of SJKC Poay Chai in Johor Baru, alleging that the ministry attempted to replace the existing Board of Directors despite the school being fully operational after its relocation from Kedah.
“Is there political interference? The public expected support for school development, not added hurdles,” he said, adding that frustrations within the Chinese community were growing, including in Sabah.
Wee stressed that Fadhlina’s removal was necessary to restore confidence and ensure the Education Ministry — pivotal to Malaysia’s future — is led by someone capable of implementing real change.
