SIBU: The Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers Union (KGBS) is urging the Education Ministry (MoE) to give priority to repair projects for schools in rundown conditions, notably SK Long Semadoh in Lawas.
KGBS president Ahmad Malie said yesterday this was because there are still many buildings, including school facilities in the state, in rundown shape.
“KGBS’ call stems from each tabling of budget where, the government approved a big chunk of allocation in particular, for improvement and repairs of school buildings and facilities that are no longer in good condition,” said Ahmad.
He added: “With this allocation, KGBS’ fervent hope is for the ministry to expedite the repairs of these rundown buildings and facilities in Sarawak.”
He was asked to comment on the conditions of SK Long Semadoh in Long Semadoh, Lawas, which is in dire need of urgent repair.
The plight of the school was highlighted in The Borneo Post recently.
According to the report, students and staff of the school were living in fear that the roof might come crashing down on their heads.
It reported that the school hall was the worst affected where several of its cement supports were crumbling.
The rural primary school, which has 101 pupils and 16 teachers, is located some three hours’ drive from Lawas.
A teacher, Sophia Pengiran, reportedly said the school had been asking for funds to replace these buildings for many years but was told there was no allocation.