Sarawak govt reaffirms commitment to supporting all schools, says minister

MIRI (Dec 4): Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin has reaffirmed that the state government under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) administration remains committed to supporting all schools to ensure quality education for every Sarawakian.

“The Sarawak government is doing its best to develop our Sarawak talents. That is why the Sarawak government pays great attention to education.

“Regardless of whether it is a Chinese medium school or others, the Sarawak government will provide the support we need,” he said during a cheque presentation ceremony from Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) to schools under the Miri Diocese of Roman Catholic Church at SMK St Joseph here.

Lee said the state’s continued assistance reflects GPS’ concern and commitment to educational development across all schools.

“This shows that we are very fortunate,” he said, emphasising that the Sarawak government is an inclusive administration that considers the needs of all communities, including English and Chinese-medium schools.

He noted that although education falls under federal jurisdiction, the Sarawak government continues to take proactive measures to strengthen the education system and nurture local talent.

Lee also highlighted the establishment of Unifor as proof of the state government’s commitment to supporting religious institutions — including Christian, Buddhist, and Hindu bodies — to ensure all groups can contribute to social harmony.

He stressed that inter-religious unity is vital in maintaining Sarawak’s peace, harmony, progress, and prosperity.

Lee, who is also adviser to the SMK St Joseph Alumni, further said the GPS government prioritises the welfare of the people, especially the younger generation.

“For Sarawak’s future, the government always gives priority to the children of Sarawak, and all policies introduced are to ensure they receive the best educational opportunities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Unifor presented cheques amounting to RM111,966 to Bishop Richard Ng for projects under the supervision of the Roman Catholic Mission Authority, Diocese of Miri.

The recipients were SK Good Shepherd, Marudi Baram for a project to replace and install netting at the boys’ hostel (RM5,500); SK RC Kubong, Limbang for the purchase of thumb scanner equipment (RM1,000); SK St Anthony (M), Bintulu for upgrading St Francis Xavier Block (RM50,000); SK St Edmund, Limbang for the purchase of a PA system for the hall (RM5,000); SK St Joseph, Miri for the purchase of a portable speaker (RM1,000); SK St Pius Long San, Baram for the purchase of student desks and computer tables (RM13,000); and SMK St Joseph, Miri for upgrading the gazebo (RM36,466).

Also present were State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, SMK St Joseph headmaster Peter Use Lenjau, SK St Joseph Headmaster Henry Edward Tarang, and members of the Board of Governors of both schools.