Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today ticked off Perlis Menteri Besar Shahidan Kaassim for acting lone ranger in extending the school hours in his state without first consulting the Education Ministry, according to a report.

He said this move, which means that students in Perlis will have to attend school from 7.45am to 4.30pm, was bound to create confusion among the people.

"Shahidan should not do it alone...he should discuss the matter with the Education Ministry. We do not want any confusion among the people," Abdullah was quoted as saying by Bernama.

He added that change in school hours for whatever reasons should not have ben implemented without the ministry's consent.