Why were mission school funds initially thought to be missing?

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Government Allocation for Mission Schools Clarified After Initial Concern

The government allocation for mission schools was initially believed to be missing due to a change in the disbursement process, which shifted from direct deposit to school boards of governors to management by state education departments. This change led to confusion and concern among school representatives who had become accustomed to the previous decade-long practice. The Federation of Christian Mission Schools (FCMSM) convened a meeting to address the status of RM1.2 million from a RM50 million allocation intended for mission schools as part of Budget 2020.
Shift in Fund Management Process

The Deputy Education Minister I, Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, informed the FCMSM that the funds were disbursed to state education departments rather than directly to the schools. This decision stemmed from a post-Cabinet meeting on November 1, 2019, which stipulated that the ministry’s Asset Management Division would oversee the application and distribution of these funds. Subsequently, this division was authorised to instruct state education departments to manage project-based distributions.
Deviation from Past Practice

For the preceding decade, government allocations to mission schools had consistently been channelled directly to their respective board of governors. The FCMSM had provided regular monthly reports to the ministry on the usage of these funds, establishing a clear and predictable system. This established practice meant that the sudden redirection of funds to state departments was unexpected and caused apprehension.
Resolution and Reversion of Funds

Following discussions, Dr Mah acknowledged the significant role of the board of governors and directed his officers to revert to the original method of depositing the RM50 million fund directly into the boards' accounts. The RM1.2 million that had already been given to state education departments was reported to have been distributed to a mix of government-aided mission schools and other government schools. This reversal aimed to alleviate concerns and ensure the funds reach their intended recipients through the established channels.

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Why were mission school funds initially thought to be missing?

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