Sarawak's stance on Chinese schools proves its inclusivity, says SUPP Youth
Published on: Thursday, April 24, 2025
Published on: Thu, Apr 24, 2025
By: FMT Reporters Text Size: SUPP Youth chairman Kevin Lau said Sarawak recognises that education is 'to empower people, not homogenise them'. (Facebook pic) PETALING JAYA: A Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) leader says the state government's reassurance that Chinese schools are key partners in the education system is reflective of its inclusivity. SUPP Youth chairman Kevin Lau said the Sarawak government had shown pragmatism in an era where education is increasingly entangled in political rhetoric, the Borneo Post reported. 'Its steadfast support for independent Chinese schools is a stance that reflects not only an understanding of the cultural and educational needs of its diverse population, but also a broader commitment to unity through diversity,' he was quoted as saying. Lau was referring to remarks by education, innovation and talent development minister Roland Sagah Wee Inn that independent Chinese schools in Sarawak were neither outsiders nor an afterthought. Sagah was reported to have said that while education falls under federal purview, Sarawak remains committed to inclusive policies that reflect the state's unique educational landscape. Lau also said that national policies had sometimes marginalised these schools. He said the statement by Sagah's deputy, Dr Annuar Rapaee, that no quota limitations were placed on Unified Examination Certificate holders in state universities was proof that the Sarawak government was practical. Lau said that in many parts of the world, education was used as a tool for political indoctrination or cultural assimilation, but that Sarawak 'recognises it is to empower people, not homogenise them'. 'All these clearly inclusive policies show the state government's strong commitment to uplifting our education standards and, more importantly, ensuring that all young Sarawakians are able to have education opportunities and are not left out.' * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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