BINTULU – The Sarawak Government has approved a special allocation of RM2.1 million to construct a new assembly hall at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bintulu, marking a significant step in strengthening educational infrastructure in the region.
The funding, channelled through the Special Development Assistance Fund (SDAF), was announced by Tanjong Batu State Assemblyman Johnny Pang Leong Ming, who confirmed that the project is expected to enter the tender stage within the next two months.
He explained that the initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to improving school facilities, ensuring both students and teachers benefit from a safer and more comfortable environment.
“SMK Bintulu has over 3,000 students and has been operating for more than five decades. The need for a complete and spacious hall is urgent, in line with the school’s current capacity,” Pang said during a site visit on Thursday.
The assemblyman added that the new hall would allow the school to host larger gatherings, official functions, and student activities more effectively. He emphasised that the allocation would enable comprehensive improvements to the school’s basic infrastructure.
The site inspection was carried out to review technical aspects of the project, including safety and design standards, before the tender process begins. Pang noted that once the design plan is finalised, construction is expected to commence by mid-year.
He also expressed gratitude to the Sarawak Premier and the state government for approving the allocation, describing it as an investment in human capital development for Bintulu.
The visit was attended by representatives from the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), the Public Works Department (JKR), the District Education Office, and the school administration. Their involvement was aimed at coordinating technical requirements and ensuring the project meets official standards.
SMK Bintulu, one of the largest secondary schools in the division, has long faced challenges in accommodating its growing student population. The new hall is expected to ease these constraints, providing a modern facility that supports both academic and extracurricular activities.
The project is part of broader efforts by the Sarawak Government to enhance educational infrastructure across the state. Recent initiatives have focused on upgrading classrooms, improving safety standards, and expanding facilities to meet the needs of rapidly growing student enrolments.
With construction anticipated to begin later this year, the hall is set to become a landmark facility for SMK Bintulu, reinforcing the state’s commitment to education and community development.
