MIRI: A total of 269 pupils from Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) and Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bario have benefited from the Petronas Back to School 2025 Programme.
The programme was organised in collaboration with Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and the State Education Department.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala said the programme not only provides school supplies but also fosters a spirit of social responsibility and collective care for rural communities.
“Programmes like this go beyond offering assistance—they also inspire students to continue studying diligently and to achieve success despite geographical and logistical challenges,” he was quoted as saying in a TVS report during the event at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Bario today (Nov 11).
He added that the programme helps ease the financial burden of low-income families and also includes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) activities to nurture a generation better prepared to face future challenges, in support of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“The efforts demonstrated by Petronas and Sarawak Energy should serve as an example for other corporate organisations to help build an inclusive, sustainable, and harmonious society,” he added.
Gerawat also urged students to view the assistance received as motivation to stay focused in their studies and to use education as a means to transform their lives and their families’ future.
“Success does not come from wealth, but from hard work, discipline, and perseverance,” he said.
The same programme is scheduled to continue at Sekolah Kebangsaan Batu Bungan, Mulu, on Nov 17 to benefit more rural students.
Meanwhile, Petronas Sarawak general manager Norazibah Md Rabu said Petronas has been actively implementing various social impact programmes across Sarawak throughout the year, focusing on three key areas — education, community well-being and development, and the environment.
For the Back to School 2025 Programme, Norazibah said each student will receive two sets of school uniforms, a pair of sports pants, school shoes and socks, as well as learning materials such as a school bag, pencil case, and other school supplies.
“We hope this contribution will inspire students to attend school every day with joy and confidence.
“Indeed, education is the key that can transform one’s life and uplift their dignity. We believe the children of Bario will continue to strive for excellence, particularly in the field of STEM,” she said.
