TATAU: Education is not merely a means of escaping poverty, but the cornerstone of rural development and the most valuable asset for future generations, stressed Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai.
He reiterated the Sarawak Government’s commitment toward providing free education for all citizens of the state, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to pursue higher education.
Speaking at the Jiwa @ Komuniti MADANI Pre-Gawai 2025 Celebration Programme at Rumah Dayat Puso, Jalan Sibu-Bintulu on Saturday, Sikie shared that efforts to raise awareness about the importance of education began as early as the 1990s.
At that time, he and former Selangau Member of Parliament, Datuk Joseph Mauh, frequently emphasised the goal for every longhouse to produce at least one university graduate.
Today, he noted, some families have successfully produced three to four graduates, with all children earning degrees – a clear testament to the success of people-centric policies.
He also expressed support for Tamin assemblyman, Christopher Gira Sambang’s aspiration for each longhouse to nurture at least one millionaire, made possible through higher education and financial literacy.
“Children from rural areas can compete globally and become leaders, professionals, or successful entrepreneurs if given access to education and early guidance,” added Sikie, who is also Kakus assemblyman.
The programme, organised by the Tatau District Information Department, featured safety and agriculture talks, fire safety demonstrations, health screenings, and sales of local produce and handicrafts.
