SRI AMAN – Education has been reaffirmed as the most vital investment for rural communities, with leaders emphasising its role in shaping future opportunities for children.
Bukit Begunan State Assemblyman, Datuk Mong Dagang, highlighted that academic success in rural areas depends not only on schools but also on strong parental involvement and community support.
Speaking at the Outstanding Student Appreciation Ceremony of Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kem Pakit, he urged families to work closely with educators to ensure programmes achieve their intended outcomes.
“I call on parents to continue to cooperate with the school in making academic programmes a success, because student achievement depends greatly on the close relationship between home and school,” he said.
Datuk Mong stressed that subjects under the Dual Language Programme (DLP), including Mathematics, Science and English, should be prioritised. The initiative, introduced nationally to strengthen bilingual proficiency, allows students to study key subjects in English or Bahasa Malaysia.
According to the Education Ministry, the programme is designed to enhance competitiveness and prepare students for global opportunities.
He noted that mastering these subjects could open pathways for Bumiputera students into high-income careers such as engineering, technology, healthcare and applied sciences.
“Today’s education determines their opportunities tomorrow. If we want our children to stand at the same height as urban students, parental support is very important,” he added.
To further strengthen educational initiatives, Datuk Mong announced a Minor Rural Project (MRP) allocation of RM10,000 for SK Kem Pakit’s Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG). The funding will support academic and extracurricular activities in the coming year.
Similar allocations have been channelled across Sarawak to improve rural schools and community facilities, reflecting the state’s broader commitment to education.
The ceremony was attended by Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Firdaus Umar, Commanding Officer of the 13th Royal Malay Regiment (RAMD) at Kem Pakit, alongside SK Kem Pakit Headmaster Ahmad Faizal Osman. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit between local institutions and the education sector.
Sarawak’s government has consistently prioritised rural education, with billions allocated under development strategies to modernise schools and expand access to quality learning.
These investments align with the state’s long-term vision of producing a skilled generation capable of contributing to emerging industries, including green energy and advanced technology.
The event in Sri Aman reflects a wider narrative: education is not only about academic achievement but also about empowering rural communities to bridge the gap with urban centres.
With continued collaboration between parents, schools and government, leaders believe rural students can achieve equal footing in Malaysia’s competitive future.
Sources: UKAS, Sarawak Daily
