Lifeline for under-enrolled Chinese schools

Many parents recognise the value of multilingualism, particularly proficiency in Mandarin, which enhances career prospects due to its global economic importance.

The low enrolment in Chinese primary schools (SJKCs) across Sarawak, particularly in Sibu, has long been a pressing issue. For years, the diminishing student numbers have raised concerns about the survival of these institutions, which play an important role in providing quality education and maintaining cultural heritage.

Fortunately, the recent proposal by Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, offers a promising solution. His suggestion to relocate under-enrolled SJKCs in Sibu from Chinese-majority areas to Bumiputera residential zones is not just timely, it is also visionary.

His proposal is a recognition of the evolving educational landscape in Malaysia. An increasing number of Bumiputera families are opting to send their children to Chinese schools, drawn by the perceived academic rigour and the added advantage of learning Mandarin.

The increasing popularity of Chinese schools among Bumiputera parents presents a unique opportunity to address the enrolment crisis, ensuring that these institutions not only survive but thrive in the long term.

Sarawak’s leadership has shown remarkable support for Chinese education. Under the administration of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the state government has been increasing allocations for Chinese schools year after year. The Premier’s commitment to foster an inclusive and diverse education system is proof of Sarawak’s distinctive approach to governance.

In contrast to other states, where Chinese schools often struggle for financial support, the Abang Johari Administration has recognised the value these institutions bring to the state’s education system. This includes recognising the importance of learning Mandarin, which is seen as a significant asset for future job opportunities, especially in Chinese-operated companies.

Moreover, the Sarawak government has been a trailblazer in integrating Chinese Independent Schools (CISs) into the state’s broader education policy. Since 2014, the government has provided substantial financial assistance to these schools.

This support, which now exceeds RM50 million, reflects the state’s fairness in ensuring students from all backgrounds, including those from Chinese independent schools, can contribute to Sarawak’s talent pool and development.

The relocation of under-enrolled SJKCs to Bumiputera areas can be viewed as an extension of this forward-thinking policy. It aligns with the government’s efforts to promote inclusivity and equal access to education, ensuring that no child is left behind, regardless of their ethnic or linguistic background.

As for the benefits for Bumiputera students, there are clear advantages of relocating Chinese schools to Bumiputera-majority areas. Bumiputera parents, increasingly aware of the importance of multilingualism in today’s globalised world, are keen for their children to learn Mandarin.

In addition to Bahasa Malaysia and English, the ability to speak Mandarin provides Bumiputera students with a competitive edge in the job market, where Mandarin proficiency is often a sought-after skill.

The focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in Chinese schools is another appealing factor. Chinese primary schools are renowned for their strong emphasis on these disciplines, which are essential for future career success in a technology-driven world.

For Bumiputera students, this presents a unique opportunity to gain a solid foundation in STEM subjects, which can significantly improve their prospects in higher education and future employment.

Chinese schools have also long been known for their well-disciplined environment, qualified teachers, and better facilities, particularly in the field of information technology. These attributes make them an attractive option for parents seeking a good educational foundation for their children.

Dr Annuar’s proposal is also in sync with the broader national agenda of promoting social cohesion and unity through education. By integrating Bumiputera and Chinese students in the same learning environments, we foster mutual understanding and respect between different ethnic groups.

This integration can serve as a vital bridge for creating a more harmonious and united society, where diversity is celebrated and differences are understood.

Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh has expressed his full support for Dr Annuar’s proposal, stressing that Bumiputera parents are increasingly sending their children to Chinese schools.

This growing trend demonstrates that SJKCs are no longer exclusively seen as schools for Chinese students but as valuable educational institutions open to all Malaysians.

Wong’s endorsement of the relocation plan is particularly noteworthy. As someone with first-hand experience in relocating SJKCs in Sibu during the 1990s and early 2000s, his backing lends credibility to the feasibility and benefits of the proposal.

He rightly points out that this move will not only ensure the survival of Chinese schools but will also offer Bumiputera students the advantage of a trilingual education – a rare and valuable opportunity in today’s global economy.

Sarawak’s proactive approach to Chinese education is a model that other states in Malaysia would do well to emulate. No other state in the country has consistently provided such substantial financial and policy support for Chinese schools.

Abang Johari’s GPS government has set a powerful example by prioritising inclusivity and recognising the importance of Chinese education in building a strong, skilled workforce for the future.

By relocating Chinese schools to Bumiputera areas, Sarawak is not only addressing the issue of low enrolment but is also ensuring that its education system remains one of the most inclusive in Malaysia. This proposal exemplifies Sarawak’s unique governance model, one that values diversity, equity and the long-term development of its human capital.

Nevertheless, the relocation of SJKCs to Bumiputera areas is not a simple or immediate solution. It will require careful planning, coordination with the schools’ board of management and support from the state government. Wong has offered to spearhead efforts to convince school boards and parents to embrace this move, ensuring that it benefits both the schools and the Bumiputera communities they will serve.

In the long run, this initiative could be expanded to other parts of Sarawak where Chinese schools face similar enrolment challenges. The state government could also work towards providing land and funding for the construction of new schools in Bumiputera areas, further ensuring that these schools have the resources they need to succeed.

Dr Annuar’s proposal is a life-giving measure for Chinese primary schools in Sibu and across Sarawak. It is a solution that not only addresses the problem of low enrolment but also creates new opportunities for Bumiputera students to receive a high-quality education in a multilingual and multicultural environment.

The GPS government has already demonstrated its unwavering commitment to Chinese education, and this proposal is a natural extension of that commitment. It is time for leaders across the state to come together and make this bold idea a reality.

The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune.