KUCHING: Early childhood care and education is a strategic investment in human capital development to shape a quality generation capable of driving Sarawak's future, in line with the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the state's development should not be measured solely on physical progress, but must also take into account the opportunities provided to the people from the earliest stages of life.

"Development cannot be measured only by the roads, bridges, buildings and industries we build.

"Instead, it must also be measured by the opportunities we provide to the people, starting from the early stages of life," he said.

He said this while officiating the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Preschool International Convention (SPIC) 2026 at Waterfront Hotel Kuching, here, on Friday.

Datuk Amar Awang Tengah added that early education plays an important role in shaping a generation capable of thinking critically, communicating confidently, collaborating and continuing to learn throughout life.

He said the foundation for these abilities is built from an early age through secure relationships, meaningful interaction, play, curiosity and creativity.

"In strengthening early childhood education, Sarawak must continue to pay attention to educational equity regardless of geography and family background, besides preparing children to face technological change.

"At the same time, this effort needs to place emphasis on strengthening identity, global confidence and the development of a more integrated early childhood education system," he further explained.

Meanwhile, he said SPIC 2026 serves as an important platform for Sarawak to gain experience and knowledge from around the world, while also sharing the state's approach on access, inclusivity and innovation in early childhood education. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Ezzah Syafiqah
Photos: Ezzah Syafiqah
Translator: Uilson Ng