The government's education for all agenda is not a political agenda, but an initiative implemented for the sake of all citizens regardless of their political belief or race, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the assistance and allocation provided by the government in the field of education were not for buying votes, but as a token of appreciation for teachers' deeds and contributions.
"I never politicise education agenda. Everything I do, I do it sincerely because education is close to my heart.
"Ever since I became UMNO Youth chief (for Bagan Datuk) in 1982, various contributions have been granted to students who excelled in their examination and this tradition continues until today.
"Those contributions are aimed at celebrating the students' success, not to win their votes. They are not even qualified to vote yet," he said.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Member of Parliament for Bagan Datuk, said this at the Bagan Datuk and Hilir Perak-level Teacher's Day 2017 celebration attended by more than 500 teachers at Sekolah Menengah Sains Bagan Datuk here today.
At the event, former teacher Chan Chai Hok and former principal Ardani Mohd Yunus were named the recipients of the "Tokoh Guru" Award for their outstanding performance in teaching and leadership, respectively.
The deputy prime minister said education should be placed at the highest 'maqam' or position and that teachers should be respected at all levels of society.
"Hence, Teacher's Day is not just a nostalgic event that is celebrated once a year, but should be celebrated every day in appreciation of the teachers and their contributions to the society," he added.
-- BERNAMA
