BY NUR FARIHAN RAZALI
DALAT: The One Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC) pilot project for rural areas here is now fully operational.
According to Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Hui Kian, the establishment of the centre is very important for children much like SeDidik, kindergartens and nurseries in all areas.
“After realising the importance of Early Childhood Care and Education in providing human capital, SeDidik was officially taken over by the Sarawak government.
“It goes hand in hand with achieving the aspiration of Sarawak Maju in providing quality education and childcare services to working parents,” he said.
He was speaking at the Dalat Play Centre and OSEIC Dalat opening ceremony in conjunction with the district level Children’s Day celebration here, yesterday.
He added that the state government has also increased the SeDidik operating grant from RM5 million to RM20 per year.
“This shows the commitment of the state government in recognising the importance of the Early Childhood Education and Care industry in Sarawak.
“In addition, we want the children of Sarawak to learn in a safe and conducive environment. With this environment, we hope the children’s development will take place at a faster rate.
“Children are also provided with healthy and balanced nutrition during their stay at the centre which helps their physical growth and brain development,” he explained.
At the same time, he reminded the public that children with disabilities did not choose to be born that way and that there is a need to choose the best for them.
Meanwhile, Minister of Women, Children and Community Well-being Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said that OSEIC Dalat is the first in a rural area.
“The first OSEIC in Kuching aims to provide comprehensive services for children with special needs under seven, including diagnosis, intervention, and rehabilitation.
“So far, a total of 34 children have been registered and it can accommodate up to 56,” she said.
Fatimah said the majority of children registered were from Mukah, Dalat, Oya, Sibu and Bintulu.
Fatimah who is Dalat assemblywoman also informed that OSEIC will be established in Miri, Kapit and Bintulu.
