KUCHING: The Sarawak Teachers Union (STU) has called on young educators across the state to join its ranks in an effort to strengthen the collective voice of teachers and ensure leadership continuity within the organisation.
Its president Kullin Djayang said the union has long supported the teaching profession and now urges new teachers to join and continue the efforts of past leaders in improving the welfare of educators across Sarawak.
“STU encourages new teachers to join the union in supporting the rights and welfare of educators. The next generation must take initiative and continue the work of those who came before them,” he said during a recent incentive award presentation ceremony for outstanding student achievers, organised by STU Kuching Division for the children of its members.
He said STU has offered various welfare benefits to its members, including accident insurance coverage of up to RM100,000, bereavement assistance for members and their immediate families ranging from RM200 to RM1,200, and retirement gifts of between RM600 and RM1,000.
In addition, members receive legal advisory services, incentives for children who excel in public examinations, and access to various insurance schemes for themselves and their families at more affordable rates with similar benefits to those offered by external providers.
Kullin said STU has also played a proactive role in national discussions related to education service improvements, such as the upgrading of DG (Grade Level) grades, salary adjustments, allowances, special financial aid, and enhancements to leave entitlements.
“These include the increase in replacement leave, the addition of special leave days, and other types of leave specific to teachers and schools,” he explained.
He highlighted that all teachers are now enjoying the benefits of the Malaysian Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) scheme, which has resulted in the most significant salary increment in the history of the civil service, with STU playing a direct role in the negotiations through its involvement with Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (CUEPACS).
