THE Education Ministry has adopted an open attitude and is ready to improve all aspects related to education in Sarawak in line with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the commitment was conveyed to Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg when she paid a courtesy call on him at Wisma Bapa Malaysia in Kuching today.

“Education issues in Sarawak are among the ministry’s focus, especially matters related to MA63 and the principle of education for all,” she told reporters after the visit.

“We will prioritise access to education and (solving the issue of) dilapidated schools in Sarawak.”

Yesterday, Fadhlina said efforts to restore dilapidated schools in Sarawak would be among the federal government’s main focus in the 2023 Budget.

She said the ministry had identified 455 dilapidated schools that are on a scale of six and 113 on a scale of seven.

Schools assessed to be on a scale of six and seven are those with hazardous building condition, which are unsafe for use.

Fadhlina also said the ministry had agreed to hold the Sarawak Premier’s Cup debate competition as an effort to strengthen the use of the Malay language among students. – Bernama, January 27, 2023.