(Miri, 18th) Sarawak Minister of Transport and Senadin State Assemblyman Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin stated that education is the foundation of national development and the most important driving force for social progress. An outstanding school not only imparts knowledge but also bears the important mission of shaping character and values.
He made these remarks in his speech last night when invited to attend the grand 80th anniversary celebration dinner of Miri Pu Ai Chung Hua Primary School at the 5th floor banquet hall of Imperial Palace Hotel.
He pointed out that 80 years is not just a number, but the result of generation after generation persisting in education, safeguarding Chinese education, and passing on the torch.
He said that Pu Ai Chung Hua Primary School was founded in 1946. In the difficult post-war era with scarce resources, a group of pioneers passionate about education resolutely established the school, starting from a simple thatched and wooden classroom, gradually developing into today’s institution with complete facilities and a quality teaching environment—it was a journey full of hardships.
"The pioneers have always believed that ‘no matter how poor, we cannot compromise on education.’ It is precisely because of their persistence and vision that Pu Kung today boasts countless successful talents all over the world."
He believes that the development history of Pu Kung is also a microcosm of the unity, struggle, and self-improvement of the Miri Chinese community. The successive boards, principals, teachers, and community members have long contributed selflessly, whether raising funds to build the school, improving facilities, or promoting educational development, all without seeking anything in return, simply to provide students with a better learning environment—this spirit is worthy of being passed down to future generations.
He also pointed out that Pu Kung now not only nurtures Chinese students but is attracting more and more students from other communities to enroll, demonstrating the inclusiveness and quality of Chinese education, and reflecting Sarawak’s unique multicultural harmony.
"Children learn and grow together from a young age, regardless of race, religion, or cultural background. This is Sarawak’s most precious value."
Lee Kim Shin stated that the Sarawak government attaches great importance to education and talent development. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari has repeatedly emphasized that future development requires a large number of highly qualified talents, especially in the fields of engineering, digital economy, artificial intelligence, green energy, hydrogen economy, and technological innovation.
He said the state government has actively promoted a number of educational policies, including the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) to be implemented from 2026, allowing eligible Sarawakian students to receive free education at designated institutions of higher learning, easing family burdens and cultivating more local professionals.
In addition, the government continues to strengthen the promotion of TVET technical and vocational education, STEM education, digital education, and artificial intelligence learning, to enhance the competitiveness of the younger generation.
"The competition of the future is a competition of talent, and schools are the starting point for nurturing talent."
He emphasized that on the occasion of the 80th anniversary, in addition to appreciating the contributions of predecessors, we should also shoulder the responsibility of passing on education. He hopes that Pu Kung will keep up with the times, strengthen technological, humanistic, and diversified development, and continue to cultivate well-rounded talent.
He also encouraged the younger generation to remember their roots, appreciate the fruits of their predecessors’ efforts, and continue to safeguard Chinese education and support educational development in the future. At the same time, he wished Pu Ai Chung Hua Primary School continued prosperity and further achievements.
He pointed out that 80 years is not just a number, but the result of generation after generation persisting in education, safeguarding Chinese education, and passing on the torch.
He said that Pu Ai Chung Hua Primary School was founded in 1946. In the difficult post-war era with scarce resources, a group of pioneers passionate about education resolutely established the school, starting from a simple thatched and wooden classroom, gradually developing into today’s institution with complete facilities and a quality teaching environment—it was a journey full of hardships.
"The pioneers have always believed that ‘no matter how poor, we cannot compromise on education.’ It is precisely because of their persistence and vision that Pu Kung today boasts countless successful talents all over the world."
He believes that the development history of Pu Kung is also a microcosm of the unity, struggle, and self-improvement of the Miri Chinese community. The successive boards, principals, teachers, and community members have long contributed selflessly, whether raising funds to build the school, improving facilities, or promoting educational development, all without seeking anything in return, simply to provide students with a better learning environment—this spirit is worthy of being passed down to future generations.
He also pointed out that Pu Kung now not only nurtures Chinese students but is attracting more and more students from other communities to enroll, demonstrating the inclusiveness and quality of Chinese education, and reflecting Sarawak’s unique multicultural harmony.
"Children learn and grow together from a young age, regardless of race, religion, or cultural background. This is Sarawak’s most precious value."
Lee Kim Shin stated that the Sarawak government attaches great importance to education and talent development. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari has repeatedly emphasized that future development requires a large number of highly qualified talents, especially in the fields of engineering, digital economy, artificial intelligence, green energy, hydrogen economy, and technological innovation.
He said the state government has actively promoted a number of educational policies, including the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) to be implemented from 2026, allowing eligible Sarawakian students to receive free education at designated institutions of higher learning, easing family burdens and cultivating more local professionals.
In addition, the government continues to strengthen the promotion of TVET technical and vocational education, STEM education, digital education, and artificial intelligence learning, to enhance the competitiveness of the younger generation.
"The competition of the future is a competition of talent, and schools are the starting point for nurturing talent."
He emphasized that on the occasion of the 80th anniversary, in addition to appreciating the contributions of predecessors, we should also shoulder the responsibility of passing on education. He hopes that Pu Kung will keep up with the times, strengthen technological, humanistic, and diversified development, and continue to cultivate well-rounded talent.
He also encouraged the younger generation to remember their roots, appreciate the fruits of their predecessors’ efforts, and continue to safeguard Chinese education and support educational development in the future. At the same time, he wished Pu Ai Chung Hua Primary School continued prosperity and further achievements.