SIBU: The Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) vice president’s position carries great responsibility and significance, said Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.
Dr Annuar believes that holding a position within the party gives him the opportunity to contribute to the formulation of major policies that will be implemented by the Sarawak government.
“My objective in contesting to retain this position is because I have been entrusted with the responsibility of serving as a deputy minister in the field of education for Sarawak.
“We have undertaken significant efforts in shaping education policies in Sarawak. For instance, we are the first state government to assist in repaying part of the PTPTN loans for our students.
“Various other policies have also been implemented, such as the provision of free laptops, book vouchers, the ‘Inisiatif Graduan Pulang Sarawak’ (iGPS), the Sarawak Education Enhancement Programmes (SEEP) and more,” he said in a statement yesterday (Feb 12)
Dr Annuar, who is candidate number 4 for the position of PBB vice president at the 16th PBB convention, stressed that Sarawak is set to introduce a major initiative next year — providing free education for students enrolling in state-owned universities.
He views these policies as forward-thinking strategies capable of transforming the lives of Sarawak’s youth, particularly those from low-income backgrounds and rural areas.
“We believe that with the implementation of these policies, financial constraints will no longer be a barrier for Sarawakian students pursuing higher education,” he said.
The Nangka assemblyman added that should he continue to be given the mandate as a vice president, he will strive to contribute ideas and perspectives to further develop and refine existing policies, ensuring that Sarawak’s vision of becoming a high-income developed region by 2030 becomes a reality.
Dr Annuar first contested for the position in 2018, where he was one of four leaders elected at the time.
“This is my third term. I believe my experience is sufficient to continue contributing to the party and to Sarawak.
“I hope that the delegates will assess my past work and achievements when considering their vote, and grant me the mandate to continue serving,” he said.