Abg Jo: Pragmatic learning opportunities needed to build capacity of S’wakians, not based on sentiment or emotion

KUCHING (Oct 2): Education in Sarawak is focused on providing practical learning opportunities to equip students with the skills needed for the state and nation’s development, said the Premier.

Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said while education falls under the purview of the federal government, Sarawak allows private educational institutions, such as aided private schools, to operate without restrictions.

A post on the Premier’s official Facebook page Sarawakku said these schools play a critical role in providing opportunities for students to seek knowledge in a modern and practical way.

“Our first priority is to give pragmatic education to our children. It’s not based on sentiment or emotion, but rather on building Sarawakians with the capacity to improve themselves and contribute to the development of our state and nation,” Abang Johari said at the 40th anniversary of the Association of the Boards of Management of Aided Chinese Primary Schools in Kuching, Samarahan, and Serian last night.

He said Sarawak’s forward-looking educational policies are designed to prepare the state to thrive amidst global economic shifts.

Abang Johari also shared that he and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian had discussed the evolution of Chinese schools.

“Chinese schools have changed towards becoming community schools, serving all races in Sarawak. This shift aligns with our policy to provide venues for quality education,” he added.

The Premier stressed the state’s support for these schools, emphasising that the government has partnered with them to ensure they provide modern, pragmatic education to all Sarawakian children.

“In my earlier years as Chief Minister, I ensured that we provided whatever assistance we could to Chinese schools, because they are not meant solely for the Chinese, but for all races, called Sarawakians,” he said.

Among those present were Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Vice Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching Song Chang Hong; Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng; and Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How.