THE United Association of the Boards of Management of the Aided Chinese Primary Schools Sarawak said the effectiveness of the National Education Development Plan (RPN) 2026 – 2035 must be judged by how well it addresses realities on the ground, particularly in Sarawak’s schools.
Its president, Datuk Jonathan Chai, who welcomed its launching said the plan provides an important long-term direction for Malaysia’s education system, but that meaningful reforms must begin by strengthening support for teachers.
“Teachers remain the backbone of any education reform.
“While the RPN rightly emphasises teacher professionalism, this must be accompanied by meaningful action to reduce the excessive administrative and clerical workload that teachers have been facing for many years,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
He said many educators are still burdened with repetitive data entry and reporting across multiple platforms, leaving less time for lesson preparation and student engagement.
“If we are serious about improving education quality, workload rationalisation must be made a key measure of success under the RPN,” he said.
Chai also highlighted Sarawak’s continued shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in English, Mathematics and Science, noting that the situation is more acute in rural and semi-rural areas.
“This challenge is even more acute in rural and semi-rural areas,” he said.
He urged the Education Ministry to include Sarawak-specific strategies in the plan, such as targeted recruitment, incentives for long-term postings, continuous professional development, and faster placement of trained teachers in schools most in need.
Furthermore, Chai raised concerns about school leadership, noting that more capable and experienced teachers are reluctant to take up principal and headmaster posts due to heavier responsibilities without corresponding increases in allowances, benefits, and incentives.
“The RPN should include a review and enhancement of these provisions, so that outstanding teachers will be more willing to step forward and lead schools effectively,” he said.
On student development, he said the plan should place greater emphasis on encouraging students to enter Science streams and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), given the rising demand for skilled talent in a technology-driven economy.
“As we move into a more technology-driven and knowledge-based economy, demand for engineers, scientists, IT professionals and skilled technical workers will continue to grow.
“Early exposure, effective career guidance, improved facilities and stronger industry collaboration are necessary to make these pathways attractive and relevant to students,” he said.
In addition, he said school infrastructure in Sarawak requires urgent attention, particularly in rural and remote areas where many schools operate in ageing or dilapidated buildings.
“Adequate and sustained funding, taking into account Sarawak’s geographical challenges and higher construction costs, is essential,” he said.
Chai also called for the plan to recognise the long-standing role played by the Boards of Management of SJK(C) and SJK(T), describing them as key partners in supporting school development alongside parents and local communities.
“Strong collaboration between schools, Boards, communities and the Ministry is crucial for effective policy implementation,” he said.
He added that the RPN must ultimately be teacher-centred, future-oriented and sensitive to Sarawak’s unique context to ensure it delivers real benefits to both educators and students.
