KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, June 27, 2025 – Former Education Minister Dr. Maszlee Malik has expressed concern over the Ministry of Education’s (MOR) lack of response to recent criticisms by Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who claimed the ministry has failed to implement significant policy changes.
In a recent posting on Facebook, Dr. Maszlee revealed that he has been inundated with questions from media, party members, educators, and friends about the issue, drawing parallels to the earlier Bella Astila Syed Saddiq (BASS) controversy.
“Like the BASS issue, I am unable to provide answers to this clash between two prominent figures,” he said.
Dr. Maszlee questioned the absence of key MOE figures, including the Minister’s Press Secretary, the Corporate Communications Unit (UKK), and top leadership such as the Director-General and deputies, in addressing Rafizi’s remarks. He noted that within 24 hours of Rafizi’s podcast, where he took a swipe at MOE, these units should have swiftly countered the criticism instead of leaving Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek to face public scrutiny alone.
“Rafizi’s critique targeted MOE as an institution, not just Fadhlina personally. The ministry must function as a united team,” Dr. Maszlee emphasized.
He urged MOE’s leadership to collectively defend the ministry’s record rather than leaving the minister to respond single-handedly.
Echoing public sentiment, Dr. Maszlee said both he and ordinary citizens are left wondering about MOE’s arguments and evidence to refute Rafizi’s claims. He called on the ministry to release infographics and third-party evaluations—independent of government or party-affiliated sources—to highlight its achievements and counter the allegations.
“We cannot allow the 55% public support for the Prime Minister to be undermined by unaddressed claims like these. MOE must respond with facts and robust arguments,” he added.
Dr. Maszlee’s remarks come amid growing public debate over MOE’s performance, with many awaiting the ministry’s official response to restore confidence in its leadership and policies.