Inclusivity and diversity theme for preschool convention

KUCHING: Three main papers will be presented during the fourth Sarawak Preschool International Convention here this year.

There will also be nine sharing sessions at the event organised by the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Development.

“The theme for this year’s convention, Inclusivity and Diversity in Early Childhood Education, reflects the growing need to ensure that all children, regardless of their background or abilities, have the right to be nurtured, celebrated, and given equal opportunities to thrive,” said Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah at its opening here Saturday.

Fatimah (third right) together with other distinguished guests, officiating the fourth Sarawak Preschool International Convention here today.

She was representing the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Fatimah spoke of the immense responsibility shouldered by educators, caregivers, and advocates.

“Early childhood is a pivotal stage in human development, and it is during these formative years that children learn how to see the world, and how the world sees them,” she said.

Fatimah said as of 2024, 98.81 per cent of Standard 1 children in the state have attended pre-school.

“Despite the challenges posed by Sarawak’s vast geography, we remain committed to providing equal access to preschool education, particularly in rural and Penan areas,” she said.

In this context she mentioned that the theme Inclusivity and Diversity are not mere buzzwords but guiding principles shaping the future of a society.

“By embedding these values in early education, we help children grow into compassionate, empathetic, and open-minded individuals. Every child — regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, ability, or socio-economic background — deserves a learning environment that reflects their unique experiences and fosters a strong sense of identity and self-worth”.

During the event, the minister also handed over grants and aids under the following assistance, Maternity Assistance (BIB), Endowment Fund Sarawak (EFS), Special Annual Grant (GTK) 2024 and for the Early Childhood Care and Education Fee subsidy 2024, to the eligible participants.

Also present at the event were Brunei Darussalam Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah Md Salleh, KKWPK deputy minister Datuk Rosey Yunus, Consul General of Brunei Darussalam in Kuching, Sheikh Abdul Mahdani Dato Paduka Sheikh Abdul Gani, Consul General of Republic Indonesia, Kuching, Consul General Raden Sigit Witjaksono and wife, Lucy Oktavia Sigit, KKWPK permanent secretary Datu Felicia Tan Ya Hua and Datu Dr Adi Badiozaman.