Sarawak's Chinese independent schools vital pillars of state's education landscape, says Sagah
Lau (sixth left) presents a memento to Sagah. They are flanked by Harden (left) and Dr Annuar.
SIBU (April 22): The Sarawak government regards Chinese independent schools as key partners in delivering quality education — not alternatives or exceptions, but vital pillars of the state's education landscape, said Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
The Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development said this in his closing speech for the Town Hall Meeting with Sarawak Chinese independent schools at SM Wong Nai Siong here today.
'Let me be very clear, Sarawak Chinese independent schools are not outsiders. You are not an afterthought. You are, and will continue to be, an integral part of the education ecosystem in Malaysia,' he said, stressing the state's inclusive approach to education and its recognition of diverse schooling models.
Sagah reiterated that while education falls under the Federal Constitution, Sarawak remains committed to inclusive policies and meaningful collaboration that reflect the state's unique educational landscape.
'We understand the challenges Chinese independent schools face. Through our ministry, we will continue to find ways to support and work together as one big family. Rest assured, you are part of Sarawak's education system, and we won't leave you out. You are always on our radar, ' he stated.
He said education in Sarawak cannot follow a one-size-fits-all model, but must reflect the state's multicultural, multilingual, and multi-system reality.
'We may come from different schooling systems and frameworks, but we all share the same goal — to uplift the standard of education for our young Sarawakians.
'Today's dialogue has been more than just a meeting — it has been a reaffirmation of our shared values,' he said.
Sarawak United Association of Private Chinese Secondary Schools Management Board chairman Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau Lee Ming said the minister's message reflected a more inclusive direction.
The town hall addressed various challenges faced by Chinese independent schools from funding to curriculum development and greater recognition of their role in shaping the next generation.
Among those present were Deputy Ministers of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis and Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, as well as representatives from Yayasan Sarawak, Sarawak State Education Department, and district-level officials. lead Roland Sagah Wee Inn Sarawak Chinese independent schools
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