PUTRAJAYA: The Education Ministry will investigate reports of students from Thailand crossing Sungai Golok daily to attend school in Malaysia.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said such a situation should not occur if the students are Malaysians.
"If these children are Malaysian citizens, they should attend school in Malaysia, and there should be no safety concerns regarding crossing the river.
"However, we will investigate and take note of this matter, as the reported numbers are very high," she said today.
It was reported that nearly 500 students from Thailand use illegal crossings along Sungai Golok daily to attend school in Malaysia.
A survey revealed that as early as 6.30am, students will wait for boats to cross to Malaysia, with a fee of RM1 charged per student.
Five illegal crossings popular among students include Pangkalan Jambu, Ibrahim Pencen and Paun.
Between 6.30am and 8.00am, the Sungai Golok area is bustling with boats ferrying students from Thailand to Malaysia.
Fadhlina said if the students are Malaysians, such a situation should not arise, as the government has provided various facilities.
"In terms of access to education, we have made everything available under the Education Ministry.
"Therefore, I will ensure this matter is investigated thoroughly to prevent such occurrences.
"Malaysians are provided with schools, and these issues should not arise among our citizens. These are our children," she said.