Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, the Minister of the Prime Minister’s Department of Sarawak, said that Sarawak’s continuous investment in the field of education has borne fruit. Nowadays, some families have produced three to four university graduates, which represents a significant leap compared with only one graduate per household in the past.
Siki delivered a speech yesterday at the “Jiwa@Komuniti Madani Harvest Festival Eve Celebration” held by Rumah Dayat Anak Puso on Sibu – Mindulu Road. Emphasizing education remains a core concern of the Sarawak government.
He pointed out that the state’s free education policy aims to ensure that every child in Sarawak can receive higher education. Siki recalled, “As early as the early 1990s, I and the then Member of Parliament for Serao, Datuk Joseph Mauh, constantly encouraged long-house families to produce at least one university graduate.” By the beginning of the 21st century, we further promoted and called on every family to produce at least one graduate. Nowadays, we have witnessed greater progress – some families have three to four graduates, and in some cases, every child in the family has obtained a degree.
Xiji believes that the continuous improvement of the popularization and quality of education is changing the future of rural communities. Looking to the future, he echoed the bold vision proposed by Tamine State Assemblyman Christopher Gira, that every longhouse should strive to cultivate a millionaire. Through higher education and a solid financial literacy, this is no longer an unattainable dream but a goal within reach. He added.
As a state assemblyman of Kakus, Siki also emphasized the importance of the Gawai Dayak Harvest Festival, saying that it is a major event to unite the community and strengthen social connections. During the Harvest Festival, many people return to their hometowns. This festival enables us to reconnect and also reminds us of our common roots and values. He said.
This speech was given in front of more than 400 audience members who came to celebrate the upcoming Harvest Festival. The event was organized by the Ministry of Information of the Tato District. Its highlights included a fire safety demonstration by the Fire and Rescue Department, a lecture by the Royal Malaysian Police (Amanita), and a special speech by the Ministry of Agriculture. In addition, the event also features health screenings, exhibitions and sales of handicrafts, as well as sales of local agricultural products. Cultural performances and the supply of various traditional pastries and delicacies added a lively atmosphere to the event.
