SIBU: Nangka assemblyman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee has proposed relocating under-enrolled Chinese schools in the division to Bumiputera areas.
Annuar, the Sarawak Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Deputy Minister, said the proposal was his personal view.
He said Chinese schools were growing in popularity among Bumiputera parents and that his idea could make the schools become a more viable option for Bumiputera students.
"Chinese schools are now popular among Bumiputera parents because of the schools' locality," he said according to Borneo Post.
"In addition, Bumiputera parents now think about the importance of a third language, especially the Chinese language," said Annuar who is from Sibu.
Chinese schools also have better facilities, were known for maintaining good discipline, and in general, did not face teacher shortages, he said.
Annuar also said command of Mandarin opened the door to more job opportunities for students, particularly in Chinese-operated companies.
"And it is a known fact that Mandarin-speaking workers tend to command a higher pay," he said after a meeting at his service centre.