BETONG: The Sarawak government is planning to establish centralised schools in rural areas to address declining student enrolment, which has affected the status of several primary schools classified as under-enrolled.
Community Welfare Development Deputy Minister Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam attributed the decline to rural-to-urban migration driven by employment opportunities and economic pressures.
“To address this issue, the government plans to establish centralised schools equipped with hostel facilities.
“With these centralised schools, we can plan educational development more systematically and efficiently.
“This will help focus on education and ensure that our children receive quality education,” he said.
He said this during the 2024/2025 SK Serembang Student Appreciation and Excellence Awards Ceremony at the SK Serembang Hall, Spaoh, recently.
He also noted that the preschool class at SK Tanjung Assam had to close due to a lack of students, with some classes merging due to insufficient enrolment.
This situation, he lamented, is very concerning for rural residents in Saribas, as some schools may face closure if the situation persists.
Addressing infrastructure concerns, he assured SK Serembang of his commitment to supporting their application for facility upgrades and other improvements.
The event concluded with Razi presenting awards to outstanding students in academics and co-curricular activities.
He also acknowledged the dedication of educators and the school community in fostering student success.
