Lee Kim Shin: Sarawak Government Fully Supports Chinese Education — Miri Chung Hua School Embodies the Spirit of Education

(Miri, 9th) — Sarawak Minister of Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, stated that the Sarawak government has always fully supported Chinese education, providing funding from primary and secondary schools to independent Chinese high schools. Additionally, four state-owned universities have been established to offer local youths diverse and affordable higher education pathways.

He said the Sarawak government places great emphasis on educational development, striving to cultivate talent in various fields that meet the needs of future society. To implement educational equality policies, starting next year, Sarawakian students who are successfully admitted to any of the four universities under the state government—including Curtin University Malaysia in Miri,

(Curtin University Malaysia), University of Technology Sarawak in Sibu (University of Technology Sarawak), Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus in Kuching, and UCSI University Sarawak Campus—will be eligible for free courses.

“This policy demonstrates the Sarawak government’s long-term investment in education and deep expectations for the younger generation. We hope students cherish their learning opportunities, strive for success, and become pillars of society in the future.”

Lee Kim Shin made these remarks last night while attending the opening ceremony of Miri Chung Hua School’s (Miri CHS) “Miri CHS Shines Bright for 80 Years” stage play and variety night held at the Miri Indoor Stadium.

He pointed out that education is the foundation of social development, and Chinese education, in particular, is an important bridge for the transmission of culture and values. The Sarawak government, holding true to its ideals of openness, inclusiveness, and multicultural advancement, not only institutionalizes annual funding for Chinese schools in Sarawak, but also became the first government in the country to recognize the UEC (Unified Examination Certificate) of independent Chinese high schools. This reflects the state government’s emphasis on educational diversity and cultural coexistence, showcasing the governing spirit of “advancement through unity.”

Lee Kim Shin especially congratulated the successful 80th anniversary celebration of Miri Chung Hua School and praised the unity and dedication of the school, board members, parents, and teachers, enabling the school to develop from humble beginnings to the well-equipped institution it is today—an achievement worthy of admiration.

He said that Miri CHS upholds the educational philosophy of developing “moral, intellectual, physical, social, aesthetic, and vocational” competencies, and over eighty years, has nurtured countless well-rounded talents, supplying professionals for all sectors of society and becoming a source of pride and an example for the Chinese community in Miri.

“I want to pay the highest respect to everyone who has contributed or is contributing to Miri CHS, including past and present board members, principals, teachers, staff, parents, alumni, and community supporters of the school. I would also like to thank janitors, security personnel, and cleaners who have quietly safeguarded the school environment—it's their dedication that keeps the light of education shining.”

He emphasized that education must keep pace with the times, especially in an era of rapidly developing artificial intelligence (AI). Schools should enhance their training in digital and AI education to enable teachers and students to master new technologies in teaching and learning, ensuring continuous improvement in educational quality.

He hopes the school board will continue enhancing campus facilities, particularly by investing in electronic teaching and smart classrooms, so students can grow in a modern learning environment and keep up with global education trends.

Lee Kim Shin also thanked successive boards and dedicated Chinese education advocates for their selfless contributions, allowing Miri Chung Hua School to become a community source of pride. He called on the public to continue supporting the development of Chinese education and work together to create an even better learning environment.