03-05-2025
Beaufort schools cannot cope, says Ruslan
Published on: Saturday, May 03, 2025
Published on: Sat, May 03, 2025
By: Iskandar Dzulkifli Text Size: Ruslan (right) being briefed on the project during a site visit. BEAUFORT: The growing student population in Zone Padas Damit sparked calls for new secondary and primary schools to be built to ease congestion at existing institutions. Lumadan Assemblyman Datuk Ruslan Muharam said Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Gadong and Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Gadong are struggling to accommodate the rising number of students each year. 'With SMK Gadong and SK Gadong being the only nearby schools, parents have no choice but to send their children there. However, both are now overcrowded. 'Therefore, we propose the construction of new secondary and primary schools in Zone Padas Damit to meet the schooling needs of students in the area while also reducing congestion at SMK Gadong and SK Gadong,' he said. He said this during a site visit for the proposed school construction, accompanied by the Beaufort District Education Officer (PPD), Gani Senang, and the Beaufort District Engineer from the Lands and Surveys Department (JTU). Ruslan, who is also the Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, said a 285-acre village reserve in Kampung Lalangut had been identified for the project, with 50 acres allocated for a secondary school and 17 acres for a primary school. 'We propose allocating five acres for the establishment of a Fire and Rescue Station to cater to emergency needs in all villages within this zone. 'This is a Federal project, so it will take time, but I will push for it to be realised within five years,' he said. Ruslan also urged the Education Ministry (KPM) and Sabah Education Department (JPNS) to find a solution to the frequent flooding at SK Suasa and SK Lago. He said the situation disrupts school sessions every time floods occur, requiring drastic action, including a proposal to relocate both schools to a new site. 'Another option is to build a larger school on a 10-acre flood-free village reserve nearby to accommodate more students,' he said. * 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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