Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman and Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh visited several government and private primary schools yesterday.
The focus during the visits was to inspect the schools’ infrastructure and facilities, which included areas for ablution, prayer, dining, and waiting areas.
They observed the implementation of teaching and learning sessions following the integration of religious subjects into the general education system.
Among the aim of the visit was to review and witness more closely the implementation of the integration of religious subjects into general education which commenced yesterday.
The visit was also to discuss with school leaders and teachers.
The ministers visited Delima Satu Primary School, Kampong Pulaie Primary School and PGGMB School in Sungai Akar in the Brunei-Muara District.
Meanwhile Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim visited Junjongan Primary School, Lumapas Primary School and Riverside School in Kampong Masin.
Permanent Secretary (Core Education) at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Dr Shamsiah Zuraini Kanchanawati binti Haji Tajuddin visited Bebuloh Primary School, Batang Mitus Primary School and Chung Hwa School Kiudang in Tutong District.
Meanwhile Deputy Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the MoE Dr Chin Wei Keh visited Raja Isteri Fatimah Primary School, Amar Pahlawan Primary School and IQRA Primary School in Manggis in the Brunei-Muara District.
The working visit to 48 government and private schools in all four districts also involved senior officials from the MoRA and MoE.
Meanwhile, lower primary students and teachers bid adieu to their religious schools on the last day before the integration.
Several religious schools held farewell receptions for their students before the integration began yesterday.
Parents expressed hopes for a smooth transition and the success of their children’s studies, extending gratitude to the teachers and school friends.
Parent Aliysya shared her wishes for Allah the Almighty for a smooth transition and for the students to succeed in their studies, while teacher Iza expressed her deep connection with the students and desire for their future success.
Suji recounted her son’s role in leading the morning Sunnat Dhuha prayers at the religious school.
Meanwhile, private schools also shared their commitment in ensuring a smooth transition.
They plan to introduce additional facilities, including portable cabins, ablution areas, holding rooms for late pick-up, and even lunch spaces.
Some schools without canteens are considering the installation of vending machines. – Azlan Othman
