PADAWAN, Oct 30: The RM1 billion allocated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak under Budget 2018 to upgrade and repair dilapidated schools in Sarawak will include Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) laboratories for all rural schools.
Currently, none of the rural schools in the interiors of Sarawak have laboratory facilities.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg lamented that without such laboratories, students are unable to study or take any interest in science subjects such as mathematics, biology and chemistry.
“Such proper facilities are considered critical and we are serious about having our students excel in these areas,” Abang Johari said at the launching of SK Landeh, today.
He added that the RM1 billion allocation for dilapidated schools in Sarawak will be utilised in the next two years.
“After 2019, we will ask for more allocation from Putrajaya,” he said and grinned.
On another question, Abang Johari gave his assurance that the Sarawak government will implement the school projects, and only local qualified construction companies will be appointed.
Minister of Education, Science and Technological Research Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong later added that dilapidated schools that are beyond repair will also be demolished and replaced, while centralised schools will be built to accommodate students from under-enrolled schools. — DayakDaily
