Kuching: The Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak leaders have called on the Education Department to simplify application procedures and expedite approval processes for school repairs and facility upgrades, particularly in cases involving safety risks or urgent needs.
The proposal was made during a recent courtesy meeting with the newly appointed Kuching District Education Officer, Dr. Majelan Sulong, where Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, Bandar Kuching MP Dr. Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, and Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong Wui Wui raised key concerns affecting schools in their constituencies.
“We stressed the need for urgent application particularly those involving student safety or critical infrastructure repairs to be prioritised and processed without unnecessary delays,” said Chong, who is also DAP Sarawak Chairman.
The DAP representatives also brought attention to several long-standing challenges faced by schools in Sarawak. These include the plight of Sarawakian teachers who have served for years in Peninsular Malaysia and are seeking opportunities to return and teach in their home state, the persistent lack of resources for special education classes, and the deteriorating state of dormitory facilities in many schools.
“These are issues that have gone unresolved for far too long. We urge the relevant authorities to take immediate steps to address them,” Chong added.
Chong added that despite the limited federal allocation quota available to Members of Parliament, he emphasised that his team remains committed to helping schools secure the necessary support from relevant authorities.
He noted that almost all Chinese primary schools in Stampin have been equipped with smart televisions, leading to improved student attendance and academic engagement.
“This digital initiative will now be extended to national primary and eventually national secondary schools in the constituency,” he said.
Chong also highlighted the stark contrast between the present and the past, where schools under DAP-led constituencies now receive significantly more support compared to when funds were only accessible under SUPP representatives.
“Previously, schools had to rely on public donations and faced persistent funding shortages. Today, the difference in infrastructure upgrades is visible,” he said.
Chong expressed their appreciation to the Education Department for its ongoing cooperation but made clear that systemic improvements are urgently needed. They pledged to continue raising these issues in both Parliament and the State Legislative Assembly until real progress is achieved.
“We remain committed to working with the Education Department to build a more equitable, inclusive, and quality educational ecosystem in Sarawak,” said Chong.
