BETONG – A primary school in Betong has celebrated a century of operation, marking the milestone with a major event focused on its legacy of fostering unity and academic achievement.
SJK(C) Chung Hua Betong commemorated its 100th anniversary with a ceremony held at the Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan Hall, attracting a gathering of nearly one thousand people.
The celebration, themed “100 Years of Educating, Uniting and Continuing the Legacy,” featured performances by pupils, a historical exhibition, and a reunion for former students and staff.
In his address, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, the Sarawak Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Layar State Assemblyman, underscored the critical role of education in societal development.
He articulated that a strong educational foundation is indispensable for cultivating a knowledgeable and competitive populace, which in turn drives regional progress.
His comments aligned with the broader vision of the state government, led by Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg, who prioritises widening educational access for all communities.
Demonstrating a tangible commitment to this objective, the Deputy Minister revealed a significant forthcoming initiative.
He announced that, starting from the next academic year, a total of 64 courses at universities within Sarawak will be offered to students free of charge.
This policy is designed to empower individuals across the state through enhanced access to knowledge and skills development.
A notable point of celebration was the school’s demographic composition, which was highlighted as a shining example of racial integration.
It was noted that over 60 percent of the current student body at SJK(C) Chung Hua Betong comprises Bumiputera children.
This statistic was presented as clear evidence that educational institutions can serve as powerful unifying forces, transcending ethnic boundaries and bringing communities together.
To support the school’s ongoing mission, a substantial financial allocation was announced during the proceedings. Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu confirmed an approved grant of RM110,000 for the school’s management board.
The funding is a consolidated contribution, with RM50,000 provided by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, another RM50,000 from the speaker himself, and a further RM10,000 from Dato Dr Richard Rapu.
Such allocations are part of continued government and community backing for educational establishments throughout the region.
The centenary event served not only as a reflection on a hundred years of history but also as a reaffirmation of the school’s vital role in the social fabric of Betong.
The occasion successfully blended a retrospective view of its enduring contributions with a forward-looking perspective on the importance of education in a modern, competitive Sarawak.
