KUCHING: The roles played by Chinese schools in the state must be acknowledged as they have helped to shape a harmonious society by providing a platform for inter-cultural exchanges.
This was said by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah in his text of speech read by Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian during the Chinese New Year Inter-Cultural Calligraphy Couplets Ceremony at SJK Chung Hua No. 3 here yesterday.
“I understand that the enrolment of students in Chinese primary schools is increasing and that Bumiputera students’ enrolment is also increasing in Chinese medium primary schools here,” he said.
Uggah added that some Chinese primary schools had more Bumiputera students than Chinese students.
“By encouraging the trend of multiculturalism in our schools, students from different races are able to form a deep understanding and respect for all cultures,” he stressed.
Therefore, he said it was important for the state to continue supporting the promotion of inter-cultural and inter-religious understandings in schools.
“The state government is committed to supporting Chinese primary schools in Sarawak including the allocation of land and provide assistance to facilitate relocation of schools where there is a need for it,” he pointed out.
With that, Uggah contributed RM20,000 towards the development and repairing fund for the school.
On another note, he said the event was meaningful as it promotes Chinese traditional culture of calligraphy couplets that celebrates the multicultural society, creating inter-cultural connection and signifying unity among the society.
Earlier, Sim also announced an allocation of RM20,000 for the school.
