KUCHING, June 24: The Sarawak government is eager to connect 113 schools to the power grid, but the Education Ministry has yet to make a decision on this matter.
The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led government has already set aside an initial allocation of RM50 million to grid-connect 21 government-aided schools and 92 rural schools by next year under the state’s Rural Transformation Project.
“We will proceed with connecting the 92 rural schools following approval for entry from the Ministry of Education.
“We hope the Federal Ministry of Education can expedite this matter so that the implementation can immediately proceed and the students and teachers in these rural areas can enjoy reliable and affordable power,” said Minister of Utilities Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.
The connections for the 21 government-aided schools have been planned for this year, with survey works now being undertaken by Sarawak Energy Berhad.
The schools are SK St Philip Bugu (M) in Serian; SJK (C) Chung Hua Bangkong, SK St Dunstan (M), SK St Leo Gayau (M), SK St Martin (M) in Sri Aman; SK St Barnabas, SK St John Nanga in Betong; SK St Michael Plassu in Roban; SK St Mark (M), SK St Matthew Sekuau (M) in Selangau; SJK Liang Hua, SJK Ming Wok in Kanowit; SJK San San, SK St Luke in Dalat; SK St Pius Long San in Baram; SK Ng Entuloh, SK Ng Mujong, SK Lubok Mawang, SK Ng Meluan, SK Ng Tiau, and SK Sg Menuan in Kapit.
“We also urge the federal government to provide funding to allow another 200 or so remote rural schools that have been planned to be grid-connected in subsequent phases,” he added. — DayakDaily
