STU wants task force to monitor MoE projects

KUCHING: A teachers union has called on the Special Task Force for Public Sector Reform (STAR) to check on all Ministry of Education projects particularly in Sarawak.

Sarawak Teachers Union (STU) president Kullin Djayang of particular concern are projects involving dilapidated buildings.

“We are all aware that the level of dilapidation at school buildings and teachers quarters in the interior of Sarawak is critical.

“If indeed the MoE has established the the special task force then STU demands the presence of this task force in rural and interior schools in Sarawak.

“We are aware that several projects are being planned, approved, and some have already started. However, progress seems too slow,” he said.

Towards this end he said the task force should oversee all MoE projects in Sarawak due to issues such as delayed starts, slow progress, and completed projects with subpar construction quality or deviations from the original plan.

He emphasised that the union is committed to urging the government to closely monitor this issue to prevent any wastage.

“It is high time for the Ministry of Education to be serious about monitoring projects throughout Sarawak to ensure they proceed smoothly and perfectly.

“We are far behind in terms of learning facilities in Sarawak, so we want the government to be more aggressive towards companies taking on construction projects in schools across the state.”

He said should there be companies that cannot fulfil their duties or complete projects, and those that construct buildings haphazardly without following the original plan, strict action should be taken, including blacklisting and revoking their licences.

“Such firmness can serve as a lesson to other companies, ensuring they do not repeat the same mistakes,” he added.