by Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 23: Now is the time to work together to get things done and not the time for nitpicking, said Assistant Minister of Education and Technological Research Dr Annuar Rapaee.
He thus assured that discussions on education matters affecting Sarawak especially on dilapidated schools were ongoing between the state and the federal government.
Dr Annuar declined to elaborate on Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng’s statement saying the federal government was ready to extend RM350 million to Sarawak provided that the state government repays its loan of the same amount.
He however was saddened by Lim’s comments and expressed concern over the lack of professionalism and conscientiousness in addressing the issue.
“I don’t think we should be complaining or nitpicking on another especially when it comes to this important issue but rest assured we are working closely (state and federal government as well as other relevant stakeholders) in trying to get things done,” Dr Annuar told DayakDaily when contacted today.
He pointed out that it would be more befitting for discussions to be carried out in formal meetings between the stakeholders.
“Whatever the differences, a meeting can be called and arranged where we will discuss and find solutions to any disagreements that may arise,” he said.
Reiterating that it was the state government which made the loan contra offer, he said this initiative demonstrated its commitment to repaying the loan amount.
“The state government will definitely fulfill their responsibility to service the loan repayment,” he added.
“Approaches to education matters should be dealt with in a more approachable and pragmatic manner. If I do anything wrong, I’ll own up and vice versa. There’s no need for small talk, we just focus on what needs to be done because that’s what mattered at the end of the day,” he emphasised.
While education remained the federal government’s responsibility, Dr Annuar however reassured that the state government will not turn away from any issues affecting the state but instead will take its role seriously and play its part professionally.
In a media statement yesterday, Lim said that Chief Minister Datuk Abang Johari Openg had agreed to pay back RM350 million to the federal government, which is the first phase of a loan payment amounting to RM1 billion.
“The Chief Minister of Sarawak expressed his willingness to refund RM350 million in the near future. After that, some things will be finalised such as the implementation scheduled, the list of schools and the tender process for the project.
“With the spirit of cooperation and the sincere intention of all parties, the Ministry of Finance is confident that the first phase of the school repair project will be implemented before the end of 2019,” he added. — DayakDaily
