BINTULU: Chinese-medium education is not exclusive to the Chinese community but is open to all races in Sarawak, in line with the state government’s inclusive policy to empower education for the state’s future development.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Hui Kian said the perception that Chinese-medium schools are only for a certain ethnic group is inaccurate and contradicts current realities.
“This school is proof. Although it is categorised as a Chinese school, 40 per cent of its students are Bumiputera,” he said when presenting a special allocation grant of RM150,000 from the Sarawak government to Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (C) Kai Ming, here yesterday (July 3).
Dr Sim then stated that the school initially had only six students when it operated in Bintangor.
However, after relocating to Bintulu and undergoing reconstruction worth more than RM7 million, it has grown rapidly into a multi-racial educational institution.
Of the total development cost, he said, the Sarawak government contributed RM1.7 million, while the remainder was raised by the School Management Board through community and donor contributions.
“I truly appreciate the spirit of the Chinese community in making this school a success. They raised over RM5 million through their own efforts.
“Chinese education is not about race. It is about values – the value of hard work, the value of excellence, and the value of openness.
“Today, more and more non-Chinese parents are sending their children to Chinese-medium schools because they believe in the quality of education offered,” he said.
Dr Sim also emphasised that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has consistently stressed that Chinese education is part of nation-building and should not be viewed solely through a racial lens.
“We need talent and expertise from all segments of society.
“Chinese-medium education plays a crucial role in shaping students who are disciplined, excellent, and ready to contribute to Sarawak’s future,” he added.
He also extended his appreciation to the Chairman of SJK (C) Kai Ming’s Management Board, Datuk Pau Chiong Ung, and Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang for their support towards the development of the school.
