Dr Sim: Chinese independent schools key to nation-building

SIBU (Dec 6): Chinese independent schools play an irreplaceable role in Sarawak’s path towards nation-building, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

“These schools are the crucial channel for nurturing future leaders, professionals, and cultural inheritors,” he said.

To ensure broader access to qualify education, Dr Sim announced that the Sarawak government will implement a landmark policy beginning next year, providing free tertiary education at all state-owned universities for eligible Sarawakians.

“This policy reflects our strong commitment to talent development in our nation-building process and aligns with the core direction of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, which emphasises high-skilled human capital and advancements in education,” he added.

Dr Sim was speaking at the 2025 Sarawak Chinese Independent Schools Teachers Long Service and Retirement Awards Presentation held at Wisma Huawen Duzhon here.

Among those present were Sarawak Chinese Independent Schools Board of Management chairman Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau; Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang; and Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng.

Education, Dr Sim said, transmits knowledge but more importantly cultivates values.

“I hope our teachers will continue to guide students to appreciate gratitude, persevere through challenges, be confident and self-assured, and understand that they are not only members of the Chinese community but also important contributors to Sarawak’s nation-building journey.

“Our children, from all communities, are the future stewards of Sarawak. They carry the responsibility of building a prosperous, inclusive, and harmonious state.”

Dr Sim added that the next five years are a critical period as Sarawak advances towards becoming a wealthy, strong, and progressive region.

“Whether in energy transition, the green economy, digital transformation, new industrial development, or the bio-economy, we will require a large pool of young Sarawakians equipped with new knowledge, new skills, and strong competitiveness.

“With the rapid rise of AI (artificial intelligence) technologies, education must continue to innovate. Teachers must embrace technology to enhance teaching efficiency and empower students with future-ready capabilities and digital literacy.”

Dr Sim noted that the Sarawak government has long supported Chinese independent schools.

“Annual grants are channelled to the United Association of Chinese Independent School Boards, with total allocations amounting to RM92 million to date. These funds help sustain administration, upgrade facilities, and improve educational quality in the state.”

He also highlighted the government’s official recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), reflecting the confidence in the quality and contribution of the Chinese education system.

“These institutions are not only educational centres but also important cultural and community pillars in their regions.

“Let us continue to work hand in hand to nurture a generation of capable, responsible, and exemplary young Sarawakians, and together contribute to a more prosperous, innovative, and united state,” he said.