KUALA LUMPUR: Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) results have remained stable despite the discontinuation of UPSR and PT3 examinations.
Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said analysis of 2023 and 2024 SPM results shows the removal has not negatively impacted performance.
“The Ujian Akhir Sesi Akademik (UASA), which has replaced UPSR and PT3, continues to adhere to Examination Board specifications and standards,“ he told Parliament on Wednesday.
Wong said this allows teachers to comprehensively assess student performance.
He also revealed current dropout rates through the Sistem Pengesanan Murid Berisiko Cicir (SiPKPM).
Primary school dropout rates stand at 0.05% while secondary schools record 0.59%.
The ministry is implementing various initiatives to address dropout issues.
These include Comprehensive Special Model Schools K9 and K11 programmes.
There are currently 30 K9 schools operating nationwide.
The K11 concept has been expanded to five schools to reduce dropout rates during Form 3 to Form 4 transition.
The ministry provides 18 types of schooling assistance to support students.
This includes travel and transport aid, life jackets for water transport, and the Supplementary Food Programme.
At the start of the 2024/2025 session, RM100 million in aid was channelled to 583 remote schools.
The assistance covers schools across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
SiPKPM has been enhanced with artificial intelligence since May 2024.
The AI application better identifies at-risk students, including their interests and learning pathways.
This enables more targeted interventions for students at risk of dropping out.
The ministry is confident these consolidated efforts will ensure every child has access to education.
Particular focus is given to students in remote and rural areas facing logistical barriers. – Bernama
