(Kuching, 20th) The Sarawak government continues its consistent policy of supporting Chinese education and today, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari handed over a total allocation of RM17 million to Sarawak Chinese Independent Schools and SJKCs.
Among this, RM10 million is allocated to the United Association of Chinese School Boards of Management Sarawak (Union of Sarawak Chinese Independent School Boards), and RM7 million is allocated to the United Association of Subsidized Chinese Primary School Boards Sarawak (Union of Sarawak SJKC Boards).
Chairman of the Union of Sarawak Chinese Independent School Boards, Temenggong Datuk Lau Lee Ming, mentioned in an interview that the allocation had gradually increased from the initial RM3 million to a stable RM10 million annually. To date, the Sarawak government has cumulatively allocated approximately RM92 million, providing substantial financial support to all 14 Chinese independent schools in Sarawak.
He highly praised the Sarawak government for not only effectively alleviating the financial pressures faced by these schools but also demonstrating a high regard for a diverse education system and a firm policy commitment.
Lau pointed out that Chinese independent schools are not affiliated with the federal Ministry of Education and heavily rely on donations from the public for operational funding. Therefore, the Sarawak government’s annual allocation plays a significant role in stabilizing school operations and improving both hardware and software facilities, greatly reducing the burdens on these schools.
Additionally, he mentioned key measures highlighting Sarawak’s open attitude toward respecting multiculturalism, such as the state government’s recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), enabling UEC graduates to enroll in state universities and join the civil service, as well as including UEC holders in the free higher education program for outstanding students starting in 2026.
Despite receiving strong support from the Sarawak government, Lau admitted that the operation of Chinese independent schools still depends on continuous assistance from all sectors of society, including generous donations from businesses, alumni, and kind-hearted individuals. This is essential to comprehensively improve teacher training, equipment upgrades, and curriculum development.
“I firmly believe that with the dual support of government funding and community contributions, Chinese education in Sarawak will progress towards a more stable and competitive future.”
Among this, RM10 million is allocated to the United Association of Chinese School Boards of Management Sarawak (Union of Sarawak Chinese Independent School Boards), and RM7 million is allocated to the United Association of Subsidized Chinese Primary School Boards Sarawak (Union of Sarawak SJKC Boards).
Chairman of the Union of Sarawak Chinese Independent School Boards, Temenggong Datuk Lau Lee Ming, mentioned in an interview that the allocation had gradually increased from the initial RM3 million to a stable RM10 million annually. To date, the Sarawak government has cumulatively allocated approximately RM92 million, providing substantial financial support to all 14 Chinese independent schools in Sarawak.
He highly praised the Sarawak government for not only effectively alleviating the financial pressures faced by these schools but also demonstrating a high regard for a diverse education system and a firm policy commitment.
Lau pointed out that Chinese independent schools are not affiliated with the federal Ministry of Education and heavily rely on donations from the public for operational funding. Therefore, the Sarawak government’s annual allocation plays a significant role in stabilizing school operations and improving both hardware and software facilities, greatly reducing the burdens on these schools.
Additionally, he mentioned key measures highlighting Sarawak’s open attitude toward respecting multiculturalism, such as the state government’s recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), enabling UEC graduates to enroll in state universities and join the civil service, as well as including UEC holders in the free higher education program for outstanding students starting in 2026.
Despite receiving strong support from the Sarawak government, Lau admitted that the operation of Chinese independent schools still depends on continuous assistance from all sectors of society, including generous donations from businesses, alumni, and kind-hearted individuals. This is essential to comprehensively improve teacher training, equipment upgrades, and curriculum development.
“I firmly believe that with the dual support of government funding and community contributions, Chinese education in Sarawak will progress towards a more stable and competitive future.”