PUTRAJAYA, Jan 19 — The headmaster who withdrew RM109,000 in cash aid for his school's aid and claimed the money was stolen has been handed over to the authorities for further investigation, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said today.
"As of now, the matter has been handed over to the police and the Selangor State Education Department for further investigation.
"We will wait for them to announce the results of their investigation," Fadhlina told reporters after her New Year's speech at Putrajaya this afternoon.
Earlier this week, Fadhlina had said that the headmaster breached the standard operating procedure (SOP) when he withdrew a sum larger than RM10,000, which needed the escort of the police or other teachers.
She added that the headmaster will be subjected to appropriate disciplinary action for violating the SOPs.
When asked about the fate of the stolen funds, Fadhlina reassured the public that the school's money will be replaced.
"Don't worry, that's our students' right. We regret that it happened, but most importantly, we will make sure that the students' rights are returned to them," she said.
On Monday, the headmaster withdrew RM109,000 from a bank in Kampung Baru Semenyih.
He then placed the money in a bag and left it on the front passenger seat of his car when he reportedly went to get a drink from a nearby restaurant.
Later, the headmaster alleged that a thief broke into his car and escaped with the cash.
Meanwhile, Fadhlina also told the public and media not to spread news involving school children, especially the names of victims and their schools.
