Iconic school buildings should be preserved as educational landmarks, says Works Minister

KUCHING (Oct 11): Iconic school buildings need to be preserved for their historical significance for future generations, said Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

Speaking at the SK Jalan Haji Baki, Padawan and SMK Sungai Paoh, Sarikei completed projects handing over ceremony today, Nanta said that such efforts however would depend on the available land and the condition of these buildings.

Nanta proposed that authorities consider preserving notable old school structures that can serve as historical artifacts.

“I would like to suggest that, for the future, depending on the available land and the condition of the buildings, we should preserve iconic old school buildings that can serve as historical materials.

“This matter needs to be discussed with the Ministry of Education,” he said.

“As an example, the original building of this school, a one-storey wooden classroom constructed in 1968, is now 56 years old. This rare structure should definitely be preserved as a historical landmark of education in Sarawak.

“We hope this proposal can be considered in the future,” he added.

Elaborating further, Nanta said that while such effort may not seem monumental, its significance lies in its role as a historical marker in the development of education in both Malaysia and Sarawak.

He further noted that preserving these structures could provide younger generations with the opportunity to reflect on the past and understand the differences between educational practices over the decades.

“Over 50 years ago, we didn’t have Wi-Fi, and our methods of schooling were entirely different.

“This could serve as a valuable learning experience,” he added.