Sikie: Sarawak's education push yields results, families producing more graduates

Borneo Post

11-05-2025

Sikie greets the residents upon his arrival at the event. – Photo by Sarawak Public Communications Unit
TATAU (May 11): Sarawak's continued investment in education is yielding results, with some families now producing three to four graduates each—a significant leap from just one per household in the past, said Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai.
Speaking during the Jiwa @ Komuniti Madani Pre-Gawai Celebration at Rumah Dayat Anak Puso, Jalan Sibu-Bintulu yesterday, Sikie emphasised that education remains a central focus of the Sarawak government.
He said the state's free education policy aims to ensure that every child in Sarawak has access to higher education.
'Back in the early 1990s, together with then-Selangau MP Datuk Joseph Mauh, we constantly encouraged longhouses to produce at least one graduate.
'In the 2000s, we pushed further, urging every family to raise at least one graduate. Today, we're seeing even greater progress—some families now have three or four graduates, and in some cases, every child in a family has earned a degree,' he said.
Sikie noted that this continued improvement in educational access and quality is transforming the future of rural communities.
Looking ahead, he echoed a bold vision voiced by Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira, who once said that every longhouse should aim to produce a millionaire.
'With higher education and strong financial literacy, this is no longer a far-fetched dream—it's a goal within reach,' he added.
On a cultural note, Sikie, who is Kakus assemblyman, highlighted the importance of the Gawai Dayak celebration, calling it a powerful event that unites communities and strengthens social ties.
'Gawai is when many people return home. It reconnects us and reminds us of our shared roots and values,' he said.
The speech was delivered in front of more than 400 attendees gathered to mark the upcoming Gawai festival.
The event was organised by the Tatau District Information Department.
Among the highlights of the programme were a fire safety demonstration by the Fire and Rescue Department, a talk by Amanita (Royal Malaysia Police), and a lecture by the Department of Agriculture.
Also featured were health screenings, an exhibition and sale of handicrafts, and the sale of local agricultural products.
The event was further enlivened by cultural performances and the serving of a variety of traditional cakes and delicacies.
Also present were Tatau District officer Calvin Ligong Bujang@Endawie, Tatau District Information officer Donny Minggu Ling, ASP Kisam Wa representing Tatau police chief and Pemanca Gerosen Jubin. education graduates John Sikie Tayai lead results