BALAI RINGIN – The Sarawak government has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing highly skilled human capital, emphasising that education remains central to the state’s long-term success.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, highlighted that academic qualifications alone are insufficient in today’s competitive environment.
He urged students to set ambitious goals, including pursuing postgraduate studies at Master’s and Doctoral levels, to remain relevant in the evolving job market.
Speaking at the recent Appreciation and Graduation Ceremony for Form 5 and Form 6 students of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Balai Ringin, the Balai Ringin assemblyman described knowledge as a lifelong investment.
He stressed that education not only shapes individual achievement but also strengthens the wider community and contributes to Sarawak’s socio-economic development.
During the event, certificates and awards were presented to 266 students in recognition of their academic accomplishments.
The school reported encouraging progress, with its graduation rate rising from 90.44 percent in 2023 to 92.08 percent in 2024.
The Grade Point Average also improved from 5.91 to 5.45 over the same period, reflecting stronger overall performance.
Datuk Snowdan announced financial support to further enhance the school’s development. A total of RM20,000 was allocated to the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG), alongside RM10,000 earmarked for the purchase of graduation robes for next year’s ceremony.
The deputy minister has consistently advocated for education as a driver of Sarawak’s growth. Earlier this year, he underscored the importance of STEM subjects in preparing students for future opportunities, noting that science and technology are vital for building a skilled workforce.
This focus aligns with the state’s broader Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which identifies education and human capital development as key pillars of transformation.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has similarly emphasised that Sarawak’s ambition to become a developed and sustainable state by 2030 depends on cultivating talent, innovation, and resilience among its people.
Efforts to strengthen education include partnerships with industries, the establishment of a Human Capital Development Council, and initiatives to close workforce gaps.
These measures aim to ensure that Sarawak’s youth are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.
For SMK Balai Ringin, the improvements in student performance and the government’s continued support reflect a shared commitment to raising educational standards.
The ceremony served not only as a celebration of achievement, but also as a reminder of the crucial role education plays in shaping the future of Sarawak.
