KUCHING, 15 May – Education is not just the duty of teachers, but a shared mission to produce quality individuals who can contribute to a better future, said Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
Speaking at the 2025 National Teachers’ Day Celebration Dinner at Riverside Majestic Hotel, he reminded the audience that “education has no limits” and that every member of society has a role to play in nurturing young minds with knowledge that keeps up with global developments.
“It is a responsibility for us to educate the community with the latest knowledge, so that these individuals entrusted by Allah SWT can carry out their duties,” he said.
The Premier highlighted Sarawak’s strong commitment to educational excellence, particularly through its implementation of the Dual Language Programme (DLP). He clarified that the move to strengthen English in schools is not about embracing foreign culture but about using English as a language of knowledge to better equip students for fields such as science and technology.
“We do not deify English, but we take English as the language of knowledge,” he said, noting Sarawak’s research efforts in hydrogen energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and renewable energy.
In further advancing quality education, he revealed that Sarawak now operates six international schools, open to bright students including those from fishing and farming backgrounds, without charging any fees. This offers them an alternative educational path to the national system, helping bridge educational gaps and promote balanced development.
He also proudly shared the success story of a Sarawakian engineer who has developed the world’s first power chip, a major technological achievement that can revolutionise aerospace, automotive, and other advanced sectors.
“Now we are just waiting for international recognition of intellectual property rights,” he added.
The event was also attended by Minister of Education Fadhlina Sidek, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, and other key state leaders. – Sarawakku
