Students in remote and rural areas must have access to quality education, says Snowdan

KUCHING, Sept 12 2026: Students in rural and remote areas must have access to quality education and equitable learning facilities to ensure they are not left behind in the progress of educational development.

Caption:  Deputy Minister Snowdan Lawan states that educational development should not focus solely on infrastructure but must also address accessibility, digital skills, and human capital development. 

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Snowdan Lawan stated that educational development should not focus solely on infrastructure but must also address access, digital skills, and human capital development.

“Efforts to bridge the digital divide need to be intensified, including through the provision of technological facilities that can enrich students' learning experiences,” he said while speaking at the Simunjan District Education Office (PPD) Excellent Service Award (APC) presentation yesterday.

He added that one of the initiatives implemented in his constituency involves supplying smartboards to schools, enabling rural students to engage in more interactive learning methods.

He noted that his involvement with the Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS) has facilitated the construction of a digital technology space at SMK Balai Ringin, as well as a robotics and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) centre at SK Pantu.

Meanwhile, 98 educators and support staff from the Simunjan District Education Office (PPD) received the Excellent Service Award (APC) in recognition of their commitment, integrity, and dedication in carrying out their duties over the past year.

Snowdan remarked that the APC event is not merely an award presentation ceremony but serves as a catalyst for educators to continuously enhance their professionalism, integrity, and service delivery quality.

“It is hoped that such recognition will inspire educators to continue providing excellent service, ensuring that Sarawak’s educational agenda is effectively implemented,” he said.

The State Legislative Member for Balai Ringin also expressed his appreciation to teachers serving in rural and remote areas for continuing to carry out their duties despite facing geographical and logistical challenges.

He also suggested that schools take students to visit the TEGAS Digital Hub in Sama Jaya to provide them with early exposure to technology and the digital economy.