Sarawak launches first community-integrated training kiosk for students with special needs

KUCHING (Jan 31): Sarawak’s mission to become a more inclusive state took a step forward with the launch of its first-ever community-integrated training kiosk for students with special needs.

The kiosk — known as HiLo Café — is a food and beverage stall operated by students in the Special Education Integration Programme (PPKI) at SMK Tabuan Jaya here.

The kiosk is located outside the school premises.

The project was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, and is part of coffee plantation company Reka Jaya Plantation Sdn Bhd’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) collaboration with the school.

“This is a pioneering idea, a bold practical bridge between the classroom and the community. To the visionary PPKI team from the school and Reka Jaya, I say Bravo!” said Dr Sim, in a text-of-speech delivered by Kuching South mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.

“You have looked at our PPKI students and seen not limitations, but limitless potential. You have created not just a training venue, but a launchpad for independence.”

Dr Sim also called on associations, clubs and business leaders to support and encourage the students undergoing training at the kiosk.

“Watch this space. Support these students. Be customers of this kiosk and let’s work for their good,” he remarked.

School principal Paul Law said the initiative would enhance the future employability of the PPKI students by equipping them with practical skills and hands-on experience to better integrate into the workforce.

He added that more than 100 students are currently enrolled in the school’s special education programme.

Meanwhile, Reka Jaya Plantation Sdn Bhd’s director, Edward CK Yong, said the kiosk is a support mechanism, providing structured training to improve students’ job prospects after they complete secondary education.

Yong also revealed that a car wash service and a burger stall would be added to the kiosk in the near future.

“All of these endeavours are designed to train the students for a brighter and more independent future,” he said.

Project sponsors include Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How, Ba Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian, Sarawak Energy Berhad, and Bario Maju Sdn Bhd.