PORT DICKSON, Jan 12- Female students who are pregnant or have given birth cannot be denied the opportunity to sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination, stated Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

She emphasized that education is a priority, and the struggle to ensure that no student is left behind must continue, including those who are married or have children at a young age.

"This struggle must continue because education is very important. It is fine if they are pregnant or have given birth, but they still need to take the SPM," said Fadhlina.

Therefore, Fadhlina stressed that the amendment to the Education Act 1996 to mandate education up to the secondary level is an important step.

"I also want to ensure that amendments regarding the marriage age remain a priority. Why? Because there are girls who cannot attend the SPM due to marriage or pregnancy at a very young age, such as 17," she added.

The amendment to the act is expected to be presented in the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) next February.

Currently, the Education Act 1996 only mandates six years of education, which is primary education.

Fadhlina made these remarks during a forum session at the Pakatan Harapan Women’s Convention in Negeri Sembilan today, which was also attended and officiated by the Chief Minister of Negeri Sembilan, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.