MP: Sarawak govt remains focused on upgrading ‘needy schools’
MIRI: The Sarawak government is out to make sure that more schools with poor infrastructure conditions in Sarawak, including those in Subis District, would be upgraded in stages.
In giving this assurance, Sibuti MP Lukanisman Awang Sauni said he would continue working closely with Subis District Education Office (PPD Subis) in initiatives and projects meant to create a viable and comfortable learning environment for the school-children.
“I’m sure that PPD Subis will share with us the list of ‘needy schools’ and of course, I would do my best to get more schools in Subis District be upgraded, or even be selected for rebuilding works,” he said in his opening remarks for Subis District’s ‘Teachers Day’ celebration at Pullman Waterfront Hotel Miri yesterday.
Lukanisman pointed out that the Sarawak government would continue to do all it could to tackle the problem of dilapidated schools.
“Since 2017 and throughout last year, we have been able to see several schools in Subis District getting new buildings such as those in Tanjung Belipat area, as well as SK Kelapa Sawit No 5 and SK Kelapa Sawit No 2 along the Miri-Bintulu Road.
“Currently, we are in the process of building new infrastructures for SK Kampung Bulau in Bekenu, using Industrialised Building System (IBS) materials. This is the commitment of the Sarawak government.”
In relation to this, Lukanisman said the issue about the poor condition of many teachers quarters would be brought up during the next Parliament sitting, scheduled for October this year.
Additionally, the MP said the new office building project for PPD Subis is now in the contract-tender process.
“The new, modern office building for PPD Subis could also serve as another new landmark and a symbol of educational pride for the Subis District.”
On another matter, Lukanisman also called upon the teachers to work hand in hand with the Sarawak government in efforts to boost the performance of students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
This was in view of the low students’ enrolment into Science Stream in many schools across Sarawak.
Thus, he wanted the teachers to take it as a challenge to tackle the situation, assuring them that the Sarawak government would always be there to assist.
On social ills, he said the teachers must also play proactive roles to prevent the students from being lured into unhealthy activities, particularly in drug abuse.
“Teachers have been known to be the best role models, not only for the students but also for the parents.
“Do not build walls that separate you and the community – engage with them by conducting social activities.”
Later, Lukanisman announced a government grant worth RM10,000 for Subis District’s Teachers Day celebration next year.
PPD Subis officer Seripah Azizah Wan Hussain was also present at the event.