KUCHING: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is capable of restoring the country’s education system which according to the Sarawak Teachers’ Union (STU) is plagued with many problems which could hinder progress of the nation.
STU president Macky Joseph described the appointment of Dr Mahathir as the interim education minister following the resignation of Dr Maszlee Malik from the post on Jan 2 as timely.
Apart from preparing the education system for the future, Macky also hoped Dr Mahathir could resolve the long-standing issue beleaguering schools in Sarawak.
“With his (previous) experience ( Education Minister from 1974 until 1978), STU hoped there will be more decisions and policies which can improve the system in all aspects, benefiting teachers and children.
“For instance, classroom or the teaching and learning process should be enhanced with advanced technology.
“The school projects in Sarawak must be (carried out and completed) on schedule with accessibility to high speed internet,” he said in a statement today.
It is known fact that many schools in Sarawak are considered dilapidated with urgent need to undergo upgrade or construction works.
Macky also said teachers should not be assigned to other unnecessary duties as their priority remains to educate children.
Federation of Boards of Management for SJK Chung Hua of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions expressed disappointment over the appointment.
Its chairman Jonathan Chai said he expected a daunting task to deal with Dr Mahathir on issues related to the Chinese education.
Chai justified his concern over a previous statement made Dr Mahathir who had accused Chinese education group Dong Zong as "racist".
“Although his appointment in on an "interim" (basis), we urged him to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC).
“We are also looking forward to more effective and farsighted policies in the interest of future generations and keep our education system free from religious and racial elements," he said.
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