By Karen Bong, Ling Hui and Cornelius Kadir Edison
KUCHING, April 1: A total of RM988 million has been allocated this year to fund 347 education and training projects in Sarawak including the construction and improvement of dilapidated schools in the State.
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said that the federal government will continue to emphasise efforts to improve access to and quality of education in schools and higher education, include for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
“Human capital development is one of the important thrusts in the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030.
“I was informed that you (Sarawak) did well. All of us recognised that the subject matter on education is key and important for the future development of Sarawak and Malaysia.
“This is something I am very familiar with since I was the Education Minister (before). It is very challenging to ensure that education and knowledge must be on par in rural and urban areas” he said during a townhall session held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
On enhancing digital infrastructure to reduce the digital divide, Muhyiddin pointed out that under the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela), residents in rural Sarawak will be able to enjoy free WiFi services at an average speed of 35Mbps in 523 locations through satellite broadband access services which are expected to be ready by October this year.
“And in line with government’s aspiration to empower the digital economy, development in areas such as the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (Score) will be intensified for the implementation of strategic development projects.
“In this regard, focus should also be given to other sectors that have the potential to drive economic growth such as the commercial agriculture sector, tourism and energy resources through hydroelectric dams,” he elaborated.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and State Cabinet leaders were among those present at the session. — DayakDaily
