KUCHING: The Sarawak Malay Graduates Convention, held at the Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Batu Lintang, served as an important forum for strengthening community unity and discussing the direction of education and human capital development in the state.

Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said that the organisation of such a convention is highly significant in empowering the Sarawak Malay community — which does not constitute a majority group — while ensuring that their voices and interests continue to receive due attention.

He noted that Sarawak's development approach must not be influenced by racial sentiments that could undermine the harmony and political stability of the state.

"Racial sentiments can easily stir emotions, but their consequences can damage the stability and unity we enjoy today.

"Sarawak must continue to distance itself from race-based politics for a more sustainable future," he said when officiating the convention on Thursday.

He added that political stability and public unity are the key factors contributing to Sarawak's success in achieving sound financial management, thereby enabling the state government to implement various welfare initiatives, including free education.

He emphasised that the ability to provide free education is a result of effective economic management and state revenue surpluses that are returned to the people.

"A government with surplus income should give it back to the people, and free education is one of the best forms of investment for the future of Sarawak's children," he explained.

In addition, he also stressed the importance of mastering the English language as a future necessity, without sidelining the Malay language as the national language.

He said that proficiency in English provides a competitive advantage in the job market, and therefore efforts to strengthen English language skills must be pursued in a balanced manner.

The convention also brought together graduates and community leaders to discuss various issues related to education, talent development, and the role of the younger generation in driving Sarawak's progress. -UKASnews

Reporter : Eisner Nala
Photographer : George S. Embie
Translator : Uilson Ng