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The Sarawak government has taken a pioneering step by recognizing the significant role of Chinese Independent Schools (CIS) in bolstering the state's human capital and talent development. Datuk Dr. Annuar Rapaee, Deputy Minister I for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, highlighted this progressive approach, emphasizing the state's commitment to providing equal opportunities for students from both national and non-national education streams.
The 14 CIS in Sarawak have been allocated annual funds to support their operations and development, with an increasing budget each year. Dr. Annuar emphasized that despite not being part of the national mainstream education system, these schools are not marginalized. Instead, they are considered integral to Sarawak's education landscape, with the government acknowledging their potential to contribute significantly to the state's human capital.
Since 2014, the Sarawak government has allocated RM50 million to assist CIS, with RM10 million earmarked for the current year. What sets Sarawak apart is its commitment to providing scholarships for eligible CIS students, who can later apply for positions in the state civil service or pursue higher education at state-owned universities like the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), Curtin University Malaysia, and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus.
Dr. Annuar highlighted that Sarawak embraces the use of Mandarin as the medium of instruction in CIS, recognizing its value in preparing students for the future. He expressed hope for the continued success of CIS and their contribution to Sarawak's development.
In addition to supporting CIS, the Sarawak government is also undertaking the establishment of Yayasan Sarawak residential international schools. This initiative aims to provide rural and underprivileged students access to high-quality international education. The first international school in Petra Jaya, Kuching, has over 170 students and is progressing well. Construction of the second school at Mile 12 of Jalan Kuching-Serian is almost complete and is expected to start accepting students next year. Plans are underway for similar schools in Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri.
Dr. Annuar emphasized the state government's substantial investment in these international schools, with each school's construction cost amounting to nearly RM70 million. He estimated an annual operating cost of approximately RM15 million per school. The government's vision is to provide students from rural and less privileged backgrounds with early exposure to international education, empowering them to pursue higher education globally and contribute to Sarawak's future success.
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