A recent Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) meeting at a local school was marked by a heated discussion regarding a long-standing issue with a school canteen vendor who has consistently failed to return change to students. The concerned parent, who brought the matter to the attention of school leaders, expressed her dissatisfaction and frustration with the lack of action taken to address the problem.
The issue, which has been ongoing for months, has led to growing frustration among parents, who feel that the school administration has been neglecting its responsibility to ensure that students are treated fairly. Instead of addressing the canteen vendor problem, school leaders have been focusing on other initiatives such as installing CCTV cameras, collecting a monthly maintenance fee of RM10 from parents, and launching a cashless payment app.
The parent, who was reprimanded for "escalating the issue," emphasized that the problem lies with the canteen vendor's incompetence and lack of accountability. She questioned why the school has not taken more decisive action, such as requesting sales reports or issuing warning letters, to address the issue. "If the canteen is not competent, they shouldn't operate. Let someone else take over," she urged.
The parent's frustration was further exacerbated by the school's response, which seemed to prioritize the vendor's livelihood over the welfare of the students. She was told to settle the matter amicably, which she felt was unfair and unacceptable. "I want to help local schools, but it's frustrating because everyone is so arrogant," she said.
The parent's concerns are not unfounded. The impact of the canteen vendor's actions goes beyond just a few coins. For families with limited income, the loss of even a small amount of money can be significant. As the parent explained, "Imagine giving RM5 a day and only getting a small packet of fries. For families with three kids and an RM2k monthly income, the kids come home hungry." The situation is further complicated by the school's request for additional funds, which the parent feels is an added burden on already struggling families.
The incident highlights the need for schools to prioritize the welfare and well-being of their students and to take a more proactive approach in addressing concerns raised by parents. It is essential for schools to ensure that vendors operating on their premises are held accountable for their actions and that students are treated fairly and with respect. By doing so, schools can create a more positive and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.
