Schools urged to produceoutstanding students

SARATOK: Schools in Kalaka State Constituency in particular and Saratok District in general should redouble their efforts to ensure that many students could continue their studies to the university level.

“This is because from 2026, education at the university level will be provided free of charge at higher education institutions owned by the Sarawak government,” said Mohamad Duri.

According to the Kalaka assemblyman, there is no doubt that this initiative of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government will benefit the people in terms of education.

“It means that our (school) duty today is to ensure that all our students qualify for universities or higher education institutions owned by the Sarawak government.

“Therefore, I call for the hard work of all schools (including the support of parents) in Kalaka State Constituency in particular and Saratok District in general to produce many outstanding students.

He said this after the Saratok Sixth Form College (K-TES) Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Friendship Dinner 2023 which was officiated by Deputy Minister of Women, Children and Community Wellbeing Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam here recently.

In addition to the initiative, Mohamad explained, the Sarawak government would also provide laptops and book vouchers next year.

“At the last State Assembly Legislative sitting, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stated that RM15 million was allocated for the donation of laptops.

“Those who are eligible are Sarawak students who have successfully enrolled in public universities (UA) and private institutions of higher learning (IPTS) for households with a per capita income of RM1,500 per month and below.

“We want to empower students with the technology they need to excel in their respective academic fields,” he said.

“These initiatives reflect the high commitment of the Sarawak government to ease the financial burden on families as well as enable a wider spectrum of students to access higher education institutions,” he added.

On the establishment of K-TES, he described it as a matter of pride and success in providing opportunities and facilities for children in the surrounding areas to gain knowledge to a higher level.

“Our (GPS government’s) commitment will help further improve facilities and infrastructure, in addition to providing support to students to receive better education.

“This is proven by several projects under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) implemented to upgrade the college,” he said.

Mohamad announced the contribution of a Minor Rural Project (MRP) grant amounting to RM20,000 to K-TES for the organisation of its activities.

Krian assemblyman Friday Belik was also present.