ROBAN: The Parent-Teacher Associations have an important role to play in the success of schools and their students.
Kalaka assemblyman Mohamad Duri pointed this out when launching the 2023 Merarau Gawai Ceremony with the PTA themed ‘Segulai Sejalai Nuju Pemansang’ at Dewan Sri Jarau National School (SK) Sungai Nyiar here today.
Hence, he advised parents and the community to maintain close ties with the school.
“SK Sungai Nyiar needs to instil a spirit of love for it so that parents and the community as stakeholders in the school do not distance themselves from the activities it organises.
“This is because we are aware that in the formation of a noble student’s personality and strong identity, all parties must join hands.
Mohamad also urged the PTA to collect more funds in order to hold more activities.
“On my part, I have channelled RM10,000 to the SK Sungai Nyiar PTA.
“Next year, we are planning to build a multi-purpose open hall at this school under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP).
“The school’s request to provide a multi-purpose hall is relevant and for the sake of the students,” he said.
Mohamad also hoped Sarawak’s autonomy in education matters under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) could be finalised as soon as possible
“Our main wish is that the dilapidated schools in the rural areas can be replaced to ensure that children can learn in a conducive environment like in the cities or towns,” he said.
At the Gawai celebration, Mohamad, who was accompanied by Saratok District Education Officer Anis Madeli, was greeted with a performance of ‘Ngelalu Temuai.’
Other highlights at the event included a special Orang Ulu dance performance, a cake cutting event, a lucky draw and golden voice singing accompanied by Poco-Poco dances.
Saratok District Deputy Education Officer (Planning Sector) Ahlias Muhie, headmaster Nanti Empeni and PTA chairman Stephen Tawie were also present.