KUALA LUMPUR: The government has approved 131 new and replacement schools from 2023 to 2027 at a cost of more than RM14.79 billion.

Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek said nine schools were approved in 2023, 26 in 2024, 44 in 2025, 38 in 2026 and 14 in 2027.

"Special focus has also been given to Sabah and Sarawak to narrow the gap in education facilities and ensure fairer access to quality education for all pupils, regardless of location," she said when winding up the debate on her ministry's 2027 Budget in the Dewan Rakyat today.

She said the ministry continued to prioritise safe, quality school infrastructure, particularly in rural and interior areas.