DEBAK: Chinese National Type Schools in Sarawak are always open to accepting students regardless of their ethnic or religious background.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said that this approach aligns with the vision of Sarawak Premier, who advocates for SJK(C) to be opened to all ethnicities.
Dr Sim said this during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the new building of SJK(C) Chung Hua Debak, which was also attended by Deputy Minister of Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam on Saturday.
The Deputy Premier highlighted various initiatives introduced by the Premier through the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) to develop Sarawak into an advanced state by 2030, focusing on different areas, including education.
In a show of support, Dr Sim, who is also the Minister of Public Health, Local Government and Housing, donated RM1 million to cover the construction costs of the new SJK(C) Chung Hua Debak building.
“With the existing fund, I hope it is sufficient to cover the construction costs for the first phase (18 months), and for subsequent phases, the school management can apply as needed while the construction of the first phase is underway.
“I also take this opportunity to urge the school to utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, which is increasingly relevant in today’s era. This is beneficial for exposing our children outside of school to be more closely aligned with technological advancements, especially for those outside the school,” said Dr Sim.
Meanwhile, Razi, who is also Saribas assemblyman, expressed that SJK(C) Chung Hua Debak symbolises unity among the diverse communities in Sarawak.
He said the student composition includes a majority from non-Chinese backgrounds, such as Malay, Iban, Bidayuh, and even a student from the Kayan ethnic group.
“Even learning Islamic Knowledge including reading the Al Quran is also applied here where it is made possible to hold a Khatam Al Quran ceremony. Now, SJKC Chung Hua Debak is not just for one race. It is open to all races, religions and traditions, poor or rich. SJKC Chung Hua is open to all. It’s one for all,” he said.
He further explained that the initial estimated construction cost for the new building block was around RM6 million but escalated to over RM9.7 million due to fluctuations in construction material prices.
As of now, the total funds raised for the project amount to RM4.38 million, sourced from contributions by the Sarawak government (RM1.5 million), federal government (RM1 million), Dr Sim (RM1 million), Razi (RM200,000), and the local community (RM680,000).
Also present was Betong MP Dr Richard Rapu.
