The RM1 million allocation to 20 selected schools is not a judicious move in view of the current economic situation, National Union of Teaching Profession (NUTP).

"It is too much money to be spent on schools at this point," said NUTP president Hashim Adnan. "The money could have been allocated when the economic climate improves.

Hashim Adnan was commenting on the Education Ministry's decision to allocate RM1 million apiece to 20 high-performing schools.

"Anyway, these 20 schools already enjoy a lot of facilities and are financially stable," added Hsham.

He added that there were many other schools which are poor and urgently in need of finances for basic amenities, and could do with the allocations.

Schools like Malay College Kuala Kangsar receive lucrative contributions from their former students and are well-off on their own.

Hashim also questioned how the allocations from the government should be spent as there are no guidelines for the schools.

"The allocations might not be spent wisely if there are no clear provisions laid out for school heads," he said.

"It may be wiser to buy materials and provide physical assistance rather than giving them cash."

The money, said Hashim, could be used to buy books, expand halls and libraries and increase the number of computers as this would benefit the students directly.

'Too early to be elated'

Meanwhile, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) president of SMK Aminuddin Baki, Kuala Lumpur, Rosley Othman said it was premature to be elated over the allocations.

Rosli said that in 2007, when SMK Aminuddin was elevated and included as one 30 cluster schools n the country, the government promised RM500,000 to the schools.

"The amount was never given to the school, and the PTA had to raise the funds by themselves and with that, improved the facilities.

"We bought a new van, expanded the school hall, installed a CCTV system with 16 cameras and a PA unit for school announcements.

"Therefore, I will not venture to comment on the fund as yet and will wait to see it first," said Rosli.