Kota Kinabalu: Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah Datuk James Ratib announced the disbursement of immediate assistance to Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Rampayan, Menggatal, which was affected by floods.
It was channelled following the Minister’s working visit to the school to assess the extent of damage and to ensure the continuity of students’ schooling is not disrupted.
Inspections found damage involving students’ furniture, information technology equipment, and teachers’ room facilities, all of which require immediate action before schooling sessions can resume.
James directed the Sabah Education Department to supply approximately 300 units of student desks and chairs, replace about 10 damaged computers and one printer, and provide around 40 units of teachers’ desks and chairs to replace equipment affected by the flood.
“All assistance and equipment must be supplied immediately and delivered before the reopening of school on Monday, to ensure the comfort, safety and continuity of students’ learning,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to the Department for its swift action in coordinating the assistance, as well as to the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia, the Royal Malaysia Police, the District Education Office, and all parties involved who assisted in the cleaning and restoration works at the school.
“Several other schools have also been identified. We will continue to monitor the situation and channel appropriate assistance based on current needs,” he said.
James also said government-linked companies (GLCs) under the Ministry will be mobilised to provide immediate assistance to affected schools as additional support for recovery efforts.
The Office of the Sabah Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation reaffirmed the State Government’s continued commitment to ensuring the welfare of students and teachers is always safeguarded, especially in disaster situations.
The visit was also accompanied by the Assistant Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah Jordan Jude Ellron, officers from the Sabah State Education Department, Kota Kinabalu District Education Officer Mr Johari Sabin, SK Rampayan Headmistress Puan Ropinah Moktar and Rampayan Village Head Mr Agku Samsu Mobin.
