KUCHING: The federal government will allocate RM100 million to assist dilapidated schools in the state for this year, said Minister of Education Dr Maszlee Malik. He added that under the 11th Malaysia Plan, the ministry has allocated RM2.7 billion to implement projects for schools and related facilities until the year 2020.
“This is in-line with the ministry’s initiative to take immediate action for dilapidated schools in Sarawak – especially those in critical condition – within two years.
“This is also part of our commitment to helping the education sector in Sarawak,” he told reporters during a press conference at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex here yesterday.
On his visit to the dilapidated schools in Simunjan and Sadong Jaya, Maszlee said, “I was very impressed with two things.
The first being the attitude of the teachers in these schools despite the condition of their schools and other facilities, it doesn’t dampen their spirits.
“I am also impressed with the students because although they are living in rural areas, they are driven to learn and if given the opportunity to enhance their talents, this is our future”.
Earlier on, Maszlee paid a courtesy call on the Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg, at the latter’s office at the DUN complex.
On the courtesy call, he was pleased that his ministry could assist the State government when it comes to education.
“We would like to emphasise on two things: the quality of education in Sarawak and schools, including facilities and infrastructure.
“It has become our main focus and the State government has given us their full cooperation,” he said. Meanwhile, on the appointment as the president of International Islamic University (IIUM), Maszlee explained that he would consult the matter with the Sultan of Pahang and Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
“I need to consult my superiors because it’s not in my power to determine anything,” he added. His appointment has drawn criticisms as it was said to go against the Pakatan Harapan (PH) manifesto.
“It’s only against the manifesto if I elect myself to be the head to IIUM or any institute of higher learning.
“This one is totally different because I was appointed by someone else, so again I will have to consult my superiors on the subject matter,” he said.
He also explained that should he take up the appointment, the government would save the taxpayers’ money as he will not be receiving anything as the president of IIUM.
“Normally, if others become the president, they would have a salary as well as receive allowances.
I would accept it with zero cost. “This saves cost as we would not have to spend the taxpayers’ money and if we really don’t want to spend it, then I think I would need to accept the post,” he said.
Maszlee also expressed that he was facing a dilemma regarding the subject matter should he reject, it would be considered ‘derhaka’ but if IIUM appoints someone else, then taxpayers’ money would be involved.
But the reaction to his appointment was an indication that the people were more aware and concerned about the country’s education sector. “This is a sign that they have greater interest and I appreciate their concerns,” he said.
