By Nityaasini Sivagami
KUALA LUMPUR 5th March: Mr. Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong and parents expressing their concerns and grievances on behalf of the parents regarding the mismanagement, and lack of responsiveness from the school principal, which has led to a series of issues affecting the students and parents (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“Despite submitting formal complaints to the PPD and KPM, no actions or resolutions have been taken to address these pressing concerns, prompting them to stage a silent protest in front of the school which is a nonviolent demonstration where they show disapproval by remaining quiet.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
The following issues are the primary reasons behind their protest and their growing dissatisfaction.
“From 2018 to 2024, the student enrollment at the school increased by at least 50 to 60 students annually. However, this year, the enrollment dropped, primarily due to the principal’s decision to remove four standard 6 classes without prior consultation or communication with the PTA and KPM. This is in stark contrast to other Tamil schools in Malaysia, where enrollment numbers continue to increase.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“The school had been offering free computer classes to students since 2014. Without any prior notice, the principal unilaterally stopped these classes. When questioned, she claimed it was due to KPM rules. However, only after learning about our protest she decided to reopen the computer classes.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“The government allocated funds for the renovation of the school library through the Perbadanan Kota Buku system. The PTA contributed RM 15,000 for the library’s renovation, but this year, the principal undertook further renovations without informing us. Upon the students’ return to school, the library remained empty, with no books, racks, or any equipment.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“According to KPM guidelines, the PTA provided tables and benches for the school canteen. However, the principal discarded all of these items and replaced them with a single swing, which is unsafe and structurally unsound. The tables and benches were discarded, even though they could have been repurposed or donated to other schools or temples. This action was taken without informing the PTA, and it is deeply concerning.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“The PTA had arranged a program called MySkills, which included martial arts and language classes for students. However, the principal removed four of these classes and replaced them with a Zumba class. This change has led to issues between the students and outsiders, causing unnecessary conflict.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“Given the multitude of unresolved issues and the principal’s apparent lack of regard for proper communication and consultation with the PTA and parents, we request that urgent action be taken. Our sincere request is that the current principal be removed from the position and reassigned to a role within an association, as her actions have been detrimental to the well-being and education of our children.” (Stated by Mr Nanthakumar, the Head of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) at SJKT Castlefield Puchong in Facebook Live)
“We hope for a swift and positive response to resolve these concerns and restore the school to a proper working environment for both students and teachers.” He stated
