KUCHING: Sarawak marked a milestone in inclusive education with the launch of the state’s first Inclusive Training Kiosk at the Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI) of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tabuan Jaya on Saturday (Jan 31).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian described the project as a pioneering effort, and said the kiosk serves as a practical bridge between classroom learning and real-world experience.
“We are not just opening a kiosk. We are launching Sarawak’s first Inclusive Training Kiosk.
“This is a bold and practical bridge between the classroom and the community,” he said in a speech read on his behalf by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng at Hilo Café, SMK Tabuan Jaya.
The pioneering initiative, spearheaded by the school’s PPKI in collaboration with Reka Jaya Plantation Sdn Bhd, serves as a practical bridge to transition students with special needs from the classroom to the workforce.
Currently offering pastries and drinks, there are plans to expand operations to include a burger stall and a car wash service.
Dr Sim praised the students’ efforts, saying their work reflected dedication and pride beyond the products themselves.
“What is even more impressive is the skill, dedication and pride that went into making it.
“This kiosk is your domain, a place where you will learn not just recipes for food, but for confidence, teamwork and resilience,” he said.
He also commended the school’s PPKI team and industry partner Reka Jaya Plantation Sdn Bhd for turning the idea into reality.
“You have looked at our PPKI students and seen not limitations, but limitless potential. You have created not just a training venue, but a launchpad for independence,” he said.
Dr Sim expressed appreciation to teachers, parents, sponsors and community partners, describing their support as crucial to the success of the initiative.
“Your investment is not in bricks and stones, but in human potential. You are the bedrock of this initiative,” he added.
Calling on the wider community to play a role, he urged associations, clubs and business leaders to support the kiosk and help replicate similar initiatives across the state.
“Be customers of this kiosk and let’s work together to replicate this success,” he said, adding that the kiosk stands as a practical example of inclusion in action.
Also present at the event were Opar state assemblyman (ADUN) Billy Sujang, Batu Lintang ADUN See Chee How, Ba’kelalan ADUN Baru Bian, SMK Tabuan Jaya principal Paul Law, and Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) president Dr Alex Pega.
