SPAOH: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas expressed concern over the provision of material aid to schools within his Bukit Saban constituency.
Speaking at the SK Nanga Gayau annual students appreciation gathering on Wednesday (Feb 7), he highlighted the necessity of obtaining approval from the Education Ministry before fulfilling promised aid requests.
“I have realised that as elected representatives, we need to get the Education Ministry’s consent first now.
We cannot just hand over whatever aid we have promised based on requests.”
Elaborating on the issue, he shared a recent experience where he purchased air conditioner units for a school’s hall six months ago.
However, the installation is pending approval from the ministry, requiring him to submit a request for assistance, which has led to a perception that he had not honoured his promise to help.
“Not that we have reneged on our promises, but our hands are tied,” he explained, expressing his intention to seek clarification from the Sarawak Education Office.
Addressing another concern, Uggah emphasised the pivotal role of parental guidance in managing children’s phone usage to prevent addiction and online risks.
“Parents should establish a timetable for their children’s phone usage, ensuring a balance between entertainment, study, and other activities. The handphones…they can thrill but they can also kill,” he cautioned.
Furthermore, he urged rural teachers to prioritise instilling a passion for Science and Mathematics, preparing students for future career opportunities in emerging sectors such as the hydrogen and green economy.
During the gathering, Uggah also announced a RM40,000 grant to the school’s Parent-Teacher Association.
