Kuching parents brace for higher costs as new school term approaches

KUCHING (Jan 9): Parents here have started back-to-school shopping ahead of the new school term starting this Monday, with a slight increase in prices for school necessities.

Observations and informal polls by The Borneo Post at a retail outlet here today found that government assistance has helped ease the financial impact for families.

Tihadiah Saman, 44, a mother of three, said: “School items are more expensive compared to last year, but the RM150 Bantuan Awal Persekolahan (BAP) per child, though not yet distributed, helps ease the burden.

“For now, we have to use our own money first.”

The Education Ministry has announced that BAP 2026 will begin distribution on Jan 11.

Tihadiah added that expenses were higher this year due to upcoming Hari Raya preparations, prompting her to prioritise school necessities, buying only one set of uniforms per child.

“Uniforms for primary and secondary students start from RM40, with school shoes also relatively pricey,” she said.

Similarly, Hafifi Azman, 40, travelled from Lubok Antu to Kuching to purchase school supplies for her three children.

She noted that prices vary depending on quality and material, and her budget ranged between RM300 and RM500.

“The BAP assistance helps reduce the financial strain,” she said.

Noveena Sumana, 38, with two daughters in Year 5 and Year 3, said this year’s shopping exceeded her original budget, with total costs nearing RM1,000.

She prioritised quality, opting for durable fabrics for uniforms and sportswear, as items from last year could not be reused due to wear or updated school regulations.

While prices are higher, she believes the quality justifies the cost.

Noveena also suggested that increasing BAP to RM300 per child could better support families with limited means.

Despite the higher costs, she said her family can manage, though she acknowledged the difference compared to last year.