Early childhood education is a strategic investment of Sarawak's future

KUCHING, Sept. 25: Early childhood education and care is a strategic investment in the development of human capital and the future of Sarawak.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said that the state's development not only depends on infrastructure construction, facilities and industry but also includes opportunities provided to people from early life.

He said, early childhood education is essential in forming a human capital capable of critical thinking, communicating, collaborating and practicing lifelong learning, in line with Sarawak's aspiration to become a high-income state by 2030.

"The Government of Sarawak recognises early childhood education and care as a strategic investment in the development of human capital and the future of Sarawak.

"This approach is in line with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 in an effort to develop a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable Sarawak.

"Development should not only be measured on the basis of developed roads, bridges, buildings and industries, but also on the basis of opportunities provided to people starting from early life", he said.

He said this during his speech before the inauguration of Sarawak International Pre-School Convention (SPIC) 2026 here, today.

Central Awang said that the development of children's abilities should begin at an early age through safe relationships, meaningful interactions, creativity, confidence to explore and learning opportunities.

He said, strengthening early education is essential to ensure that children in Sarawak are prepared for a future driven by technology, innovation and change, without neglecting their culture and identity.

He said that every child should be given an opportunity to develop their own potential, while the beginning of their life should not be determined by where they live or family income.

"Comprehensive cooperation between the government, families, educational institutions, communities, industry and related sectors is essential to ensure that the interests of children in Sarawak are always a priority", he said.