Adoption programme boosts rural schools

10 Oct 2025 • 3:50 PM MYT
Daily Express
Daily Express

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PAPAR: The Madani Adopted School Programme introduced by the government continues to bring significant benefits to rural schools nationwide, including Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Sumbiling Bongawan.

National Security Council (MKN) Director-General Datuk Raja Nushirwan Zainal Abidin said the programme aims to uplift underprivileged schools across the country by improving infrastructure and facilities without going through cumbersome bureaucratic processes.

“The implementation of the Madani Adopted Schools Programme, with a maximum allocation of RM100,000 per school, sets a new benchmark for government agencies to adopt a more practical and impactful approach in improving the school environment and enhancing public service delivery.

“The core objective of this initiative is to upgrade dilapidated schools quickly. The RM100,000 allocation is channelled directly to selected schools identified by secretaries-general and heads of government agencies.

“Through this approach, teachers and students can benefit much faster, bypassing the red tape of previous systems,” he said during the Launching Ceremony of the MKN Madani Adopted School Programme at SK Sumbiling Bongawan on Tuesday.

On the RM100,000 allocation, Nushirwan clarified that the funds are distributed equally, not only among government agencies but also with the participation of government-linked companies (GLCs) to ensure swift and tangible impact at selected schools.

“For MKN, I requested that one underprivileged school in Sabah be identified. I thank Datuk Yahya for identifying SK Sumbiling. “The programme here focuses on improving school facilities and replacing outdated furniture, especially teacher desks and chairs, with the aim of boosting comfort and motivation among students and educators,” he said.

He also expressed satisfaction with the strong collaboration between the school management, District Education Office, District Office, PIBG, and appointed contractors who managed to complete the project two weeks ahead of schedule.

Nushirwan also urged students to make full use of the improved learning environment and continue striving for academic excellence.

“My hope is that the students will study hard, secure a better future, and ultimately uplift their families and communities,” he said.

Meanwhile, SK Sumbiling Bongawan Headmaster Asney Jais said the programme had enabled much-needed upgrades, including refurbishment of two classroom blocks, replacement of doors, fans, lights, whiteboards and supply of new desks and chairs.

“This programme has brought renewed spirit and energy to both students and teachers. The upgraded infrastructure has created a more positive learning environment and boosted overall school morale.

“With this collaboration with MKN, I hope the school continues to receive long-term support for the benefit of our students and staff,” he said.

Located about 63.2km from Kota Kinabalu, SK Sumbiling has 172 students and is classified as a Grade A rural school under the Beaufort District Education Office.

Also present were Sabah MKN Director Datuk Yahya Sulaiman, Sabah State Education Department representative Ahmad Firdaus Lee Abdullah, Sabah Information Department representative Suhaili Awang, SK Sumbiling Headmaster Asney Jais and Parents and Teachers Association (PIBG) President Rayner Jimbulat.