KUCHING: Sarawakians who have mastered Bahasa Malaysia, English, and Mandarin already have an added advantage, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“These languages are very important — Bahasa Malaysia is our national language which is mandatory for us learn. Secondly, you must know English because it is an international language.
“Mandarin is also important because the Chinese economy is rising, which is why it’s vital to understand Mandarin,” he said when officiating at the Riam Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) building at Riam Road Secondary School today.
He said when Sarawakians are well-versed in these three languages, it will give them a competitive edge not only in the state, but on an international level.
“This is the type of Sarawakian that we want to produce,” he said.
Abang Johari then commended the Riam Road Secondary School’s efforts for going the extra mile by a providing three-in-one education system — Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), national syllabus, and international syllabus — which will be carried out soon.
“I must congratulate this school, and I think this is the only school that provides a three-in-one syllabus,” he said.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister and Senadin assemblyman Datuk Lee Kim Shin said that Sarawak’s main agenda is to provide quality education to its people in order to produce quality manpower.
“Riam Road Secondary School under the leadership of its chairman Datuk Seri Law Kiu Kiong is indeed committed in the progress and advancement of education in Sarawak,” he said.
He added that other than being recognised for its achievements in academics and sports, it will also be recognised for its contributions to the TVET sector in producing quality workforce.
“Therefore, let us continue to work closely with the Sarawak government and give support to our chief minister who supports Chinese independent schools and has provided huge annual allocations,” he said.
Earlier, Abang Johari presented a cheque amounting RM2.5 million to Riam Road Secondary School which will be used to continue the construction of its TVET building.
Lee also presented an additional RM30,000 to the school for the same purpose.
