Sarawak Teachers’ Union lauds decision to set up state international schools

SIBU: Sarawak Teachers’ Union ( STU) has commended the state government for its “bold move” to set up its own international schools and expressed hope that these schools would be equipped with the best facilitators and infrastructure.

STU president Macky Joseph, however, stressed that “in depth details for registration” must be made transparent, giving the opportunity for all eligible Sarawakians to enrol.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg had said that the fees would be based on affordability, adding that the Sarawak government would also subsidise some of it.

Five sites – two in Kuching and one each in Sibu, Miri and Bintulu – have been identified for the proposed international schools, according to the Chief Minister.

“STU believe the proposal is in line with industry 4.0 and it is very timely for Sarawak to have her own International Schools. It is hoped that it will reduce cost drastically for those interested to further their studies right here in Sarawak,” Macky told The Borneo Post yesterday.

“Sarawak need to prepare her own qualified workforce and this move is in line with that as qualified students after the completion of their studies locally and abroad could be absorbed into the State civil service. Excellent decision.

“The main targets of this initiative are for the development of Greater Sarawak,” he added.

Meanwhile, Abang Johari had also said the syllabus would be an international one, with Bahasa Melayu as a single subject.