The recent controversy over a brewery’s involvement in a school’s fundraising event has drawn attention to how schools, particularly vernacular schools, are funded.

The Education Ministry has said schools should not accept donations from the proceeds of certain activities deemed to be a negative influence on student development.

Many other political parties, NGOs, and individuals have also chimed in on the issue, either arguing in support of the ministry’s prohibition or some form of leeway for vernacular schools to raise money.

The issue has culminated in a cabinet discussion, with the Education Ministry expected to issue a statement soon on the outcome of that discussion.

To help understand what’s at stake, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur United Chinese School Committees’ Association secretary-general Low Chee Chong joined a Malaysiakini Chinese-language podcast to discuss how Chinese vernacular schools raise money.

How are Chinese schools funded?

There are two types of Chinese primary schools in Malaysia...