KUCHING: The 2021 budget should specifically outline allocations provided for Chinese primary and independent schools nation-wide, said Federation of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions Chinese Associations president Datuk Richard Wee.
“In the last two federal budgets, there was specific mention of allocations for Chinese primary schools and Chinese independent schools. But in Budget 2021, there is no such mention.
“I sincerely hope that the allocations provided in the last two budgets are continued,” he said yesterday.
Wee noted that under the previous federal budget, Chinese primary schools were allocated RM50 million while Chinese independent schools were allocated RM15 million.
In Budget 2021, a sum of RM177 million has been allocated for the Chinese community for programmes to improve educational facilities, housing, and the development of new villages.
Wee, who is also chairman of the Board of Management of Kuching Chung Hua Middle School No. 1, 3 and 4, pointed out that as this was a grouped allocation, it was unclear if allocations were specifically provided for Chinese primary schools and Chinese independent schools.
He hoped that the federal government would be able to clarify the matter so there would be a clearer outline as to whether the allocation for Chinese schools was included in this lump sum.
“If such allocations are not provided for both Chinese primary and independent schools, the Chinese community will feel very disappointed,” he said.
