NUTP welcomes move to ease teacher transfer rules, calls for transparent system

New Straits Times

16-05-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The government's decision to ease teacher transfer conditions is a long-overdue relief for educators facing pressing personal circumstances, particularly those dealing with family or health-related challenges, said the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP).
NUTP secretary-general Fouzi Singon said allowing teachers to apply for transfers after just two years of service without additional conditions would have both emotional and professional impacts, especially for those who have waited years to move closer to home.
He said the move would particularly benefit teachers dealing with family or medical issues, enabling them to serve with greater focus and emotional stability.
"We thank Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and the Education Ministry for listening to the voices of teachers and making this bold decision.
"It provides immediate relief for those facing urgent family challenges, health concerns, or other pressing circumstances," he told the New Straits Times.
Fouzi added that while not all teachers intend to apply for transfers as soon as they become eligible, the option will significantly assist those in need.
"We believe most teachers want to remain committed to their posts, but in some cases, being able to move closer to home will enable them to perform better and serve more effectively," he said.
However, Fouzi emphasised that a proper system must be in place to prevent the new flexibility from being exploited.
"We hope a dedicated committee can be established to fairly evaluate each application, ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of this opportunity," he said.
Previously, the Education Ministry required teachers to serve at least three years before submitting transfer requests, and even then, applications were subject to strict conditions and limited quotas.
Fadhlina announced the new policy on Friday (May 16) during her speech at the 54th National Teachers' Day celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
She said the ministry would now accept applications from teachers who have completed two years of service, without any additional conditions.
Commenting further, Fouzi said health issues and divorce were among the main reasons cited by teachers applying for transfers.
"Most of the applications we receive are related to the need for ongoing medical treatment at a specific hospital or family matters such as divorce," he said.
"For instance, in the case of Cikgu Din, his wife was battling cancer, and he wanted to be by her side to care for her. Situations like this demonstrate the importance of considering transfers based on family, health, and even safety concerns."
Last year, the case of Cikgu Din drew national attention after he reportedly developed mental health issues from being separated from his wife, who was undergoing cancer treatment in Kelantan.
His initial transfer request was denied as he had not yet completed the three-year service requirement.
Cikgu Din, who was teaching in Kanowit, Sarawak, had been travelling back and forth every two weeks to care for his wife. The ministry later approved his transfer, allowing him to teach at a school closer to her.