SUPP leader: S'wak shows minority education can thrive with national unity

Summary

• SUPP leader says Sarawak champions educational inclusivity by fully supporting Chinese independent schools.

• Kelvin Lau says that despite education being a federal matter, Sarawak actively pursues independent policies.

• Leaders emphasise that education should empower individuals, not enforce conformity.

In a time when education is often hijacked by political agendas, Sarawak shines as a model of inclusive, forward-thinking governance, declared Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) central youth chairperson Kelvin Lau.

His statement came in support of Sarawak’s Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who recently reaffirmed that Chinese independent schools are neither outsiders nor an afterthought in the state’s education landscape.

“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 by Borneo Post.

Lau’s (above) remarks followed a town hall session with SM Wong Nai Siong, where Sagah emphasised that Chinese independent schools are not just welcomed, but embraced as strategic partners in delivering quality education across the state.

Sagah further acknowledged that while education falls under federal jurisdiction, Sarawak remains resolute in its pursuit of inclusive policies that reflect its distinct educational ecosystem.

Elaborating, Lau noted that periods of strong centralisation in national policymaking have occasionally led to these schools being marginalised and viewed as separate from the national identity.

He said Sarawak leaders, while recognising Chinese independent schools as key partners in delivering quality education, have also made real efforts to understand and see the benefits of different education models.

He highlighted how successive state administrations, beginning with the late Adenan Satem and continuing under Premier Abang Johari Openg, have recognised the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) - a move that sets Sarawak apart from the rest of Malaysia.

In a concrete show of support, RM82 million has been allocated to Chinese independent schools as of 2024, a figure that Lau said underscores the state government’s unwavering commitment.

Progressive policies

Citing Sagah’s deputy Annuar Rapaee’s remarks on the absence of quota limitations for UEC holders entering state universities, Lau said this showed practical outcome over political posturing, making Sarawak a fertile ground for progressive policies in education.

He drew a stark contrast with other regions where education is weaponised for indoctrination or cultural control.

“In many parts of the world, education is used as a tool for political indoctrination or cultural assimilation, but Sarawak instead recognises it is to empower people, not homogenise them,” he added.

Lau pointed to several milestones that reflect Sarawak’s vision of educational pluralism, including the creation of the Yayasan Sarawak International School.

“All these inclusive policies show the state government’s strong commitment to uplifting our education standards to be relevant to the digital and green industry, and more importantly, ensure all young Sarawakians can have education opportunities and not be left out.

“This support is rooted in a vision of educational pluralism, where diversity is seen as a strength rather than a threat,” he added.

Lau stressed that diversity in education fuels resilience, creativity, and strength, and that Sarawak is proving to the nation that supporting minority education can coexist with national unity.

“We hope the continuous close collaboration between the ministry and Chinese independent schools in Sarawak will gear up our students to be better prepared, so they can grab the opportunities when free tertiary education for STEM-related courses next year is implemented,” he added.

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