SIBU: The welfare of teachers should be taken care of as it is as important as student welfare.
According to Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Michael Tiang, amidst challenges, some extent of welfare especially among teachers may have been overlooked.
“Teachers are builders of our nation because you shape our future leaders. So, we acknowledge that if we want to put students first, we cannot put you last,” he said at the Sarawak Teacher Union (STU) Seminar on Saturday
“Your welfare is as important as the students’ welfare.
“So, I believe that schools should work together with assemblymen in taking care of not only the students and school development and welfare, but teachers’ welfare as well,” he said.
Tiang also conceded that teachers had higher stress levels when the schools were forced to close.
“From trying to get used to online teaching to ensuring students understand the lessons, your struggles and difficulties must be addressed.
“Surely, we cannot solve everything, but at the very least, we want to help as much as we can and render our support to you,” he said.
Responding to STU Sibu hopes voiced by its chairman, Yong Sie Hing for a fund to be channeled to the union for its activity, Tiang said for a start he allocated RM1000 to the RM1200 given by the union as ‘bantuan khirat kematian’ (condolences assistance).
“Don’t worry I will raise some funds for you this year …I suggested to your chairman that beginning next year I am planning to do some fundraising for you, I will be your spokesman, I will get some programmes running for you so that you will raise funds at the beginning of the year.”
Tiang also encouraged every school to reach out to the assemblyman in their constituencies for help.
“Don’t be shy. Actually, ADUNs are very willing to help you, to extend their assistance to your school because we know very well our children are in your hands and you have done a wonderful job.
“So YBs are more than happy to come to your assistance and support,” he said.
