RM1 bln school rehabilitation scheme in Sarawak shows strong progress, says Dr Annuar

KANOWIT (Dec 10): The rehabilitation of dilapidated schools in Sarawak under the RM1 billion special funding scheme is progressing well, with only two schools from the first phase yet to be completed.

Out of the 140 schools listed under the scheme, 39 schools in the first phase have been fully completed and handed over, while another 35 schools in the second phase are also completed and operational

“Today’s visit is to assess the latest progress of the RM1 billion scheme initiated by the Sarawak Premier to accelerate the upgrading of dilapidated schools across the state,” State Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee told reporters after visiting SK Nanga Tada here.

“We paid the federal loan in advance, and the funds were channelled towards repairing school facilities.”

Dr Annuar said the overall progress has been encouraging, despite challenges in rural and remote areas where accessibility can delay work.

“We acknowledge there have been minor delays, mainly due to construction challenges in interior locations. Even so, the current progress is very satisfactory,” he added.

Several projects under Phase 3 have already commenced, while others are moving through the planning process.

During the visit, Dr Annuar inspected facilities at SK Nanga Tada, one of the schools upgraded under Phase 1 with an allocation of RM12.3 million. The school now features a new academic block with 12 classrooms and a hostel accommodating up to 100 students.

“With over 200 students enrolled, the school is now far more conducive for learning.

“I am very pleased, as this reflects the government’s commitment to providing a safe and comfortable learning environment,” he said, adding that additional facilities are expected under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

Also present during the visit were Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana; Public Works Department (JKR) Divisional Development Section assistant engineers Dick Cheney Micheal Jopie and Sofyan Ismail; representatives of the Kanowit District Education Office Dayang Nurul and Nur Sakinah; SK Nanga Tada headmaster Mikem Longiok; Penghulu Ugap Seribu; and SK Nanga Tada parent-teacher association vice-chairman Bunut Kubu.