DALAT: Children have the right to obtain early education to ensure they become members of society who contribute to the development of the state.
Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said that the early years of a child are a very important beginning in every individual’s life journey.
“Because of this, we emphasise the importance of quality education and care to determine their future.
“At the same time, we need to improve their health, communication skills, and socio-emotional development to ensure they become quality human resources in the future,” she said.
She said this during the 33rd SeDiDik Convocation Ceremony for the Mukah Zone which was held at the Dalat Welfare Complex here on Saturday.
Fatimah further said that as of Oct 31, there were 2,718 registered kindergartens and 242 registered childcare centres in Sarawak, with a total of 73,302 children aged six years and below.
“According to statistics from the Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS), the percentage of Year 1 children in 2024 who attended kindergartens is 98.81 per cent, compared to 98.71 per cent in 2023.
“Therefore, the Ministry will continue to ensure 100 per cent access to early childhood education by 2030,” she said.
Fatimah, who is the Dalat assemblywoman, also emphasised the importance of learning through experiences, such as visits to other places, which can help stimulate the minds and emotions of children.
“In addition, SeDiDik, in collaboration with the Sarawak State Library and the National Library Board of Singapore (NLB), implements the ‘Young Writers Programme’ aimed at enhancing fine motor skills, fostering creativity and expression, as well as developing higher-order thinking skills.
“Furthermore, to support the SeDiDik Open Door Policy, a sign language programme has been implemented to instil empathy and respect for friends with disabilities from an early age.
“Additionally, SeDiDik also conducts the Young Saver Programme and Nutrition in Education programme to instil a sense of responsibility from a young age,” she said.
She added her Ministry is also studying a holistic approach to building kindergartens, childcare centres and daycare centres under one premises.
She stated that this could save construction costs as facilities such as playgrounds, dining areas, and activity spaces could be shared.
Also present were SeDiDik’s general manager Ayub Dahar, and Mukah Resident Datuk Kueh Lei Poh.
