By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, April 30: The Sarawak Unity Education Fund (SUEF) has raised approximately RM3.57 million from numerous notable and generous donors.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who also serves as the fund’s patron, said that the contributors are private corporations and individuals who have voluntarily given back to society because they trust and believe in the charitable project.
“The Sarawak Unity Education Fund’s launch is timely, as it aligns with Sarawak’s goal of prioritising talent development and human capital, which is critical to the state’s transition to a new economy based on renewal/green energy, hydrogen, and digital technology.
“We must empower Sarawakian youth and children by providing them with the knowledge and skills they need for long-term growth,” the Premier stated in his speech, which was read by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Dr Sim represented Abang Johari at the SUEF launch, which was held today at a local hotel here.
The Premier emphasised that the SUEF was established with the primary goal of offering financial assistance to deserving, talented, and needy individuals from all communities in Sarawak so that they could pursue higher education and gain skills at recognised institutions.
“The goal is to develop and groom Sarawak talents and young generations to become future leaders and contributors to Sarawak’s progress and prosperity, resulting in a brighter and more sustainable future for all Sarawakians,” he added.
Meanwhile, the fund’s chairman, Datuk Richard Lee Say Tshin, expressed hope during his speech that the SUEF will continue to receive support, making the fund sustainable and producing high-quality human capital for the country.
“We will set up a website for the public to monitor our progress, or you can contact any of us for more information,” he added.
Lee also introduced notable dignitaries and officials of the SUEF board and committee members, who are Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Husain, the fund’s adviser; Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak president Dato Richard Wee, the fund’s adviser; Dato Wee Yiaw Hin, the fund’s secretary; Datu Laura Lee Ngien Hion, the fund’s treasurer; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, the fund’s selection chairman; Dato Janin Girie, the fund’s fundraising chairman; and Grover Peter Gani, the head of secretariat.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin and Sarawak Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom. — DayakDaily
