KTS Group hailed for RM3 mln donation to Sarawak’s Chinese independent schools, teachers

KUCHING (Jan 20): KTS Group’s allocation of RM3 million for Chinese independent schools in Sarawak has been hailed as a much-needed boost and meaningful recognition of the sector.

During a ceremony to mark the 20th anniversary of the passing of KTS Group founding managing director Dato Sri Dr Lau Hui Kang on Monday, the group announced RM2 million will be distributed as a one-month bonus for teachers from 14 Chinese independent secondary schools, while RM1 million was presented to the Sarawak United Association of Private Chinese Secondary School Management Boards.

Association deputy president Dato Sri Richard Wee said KTS Group’s donation serves as a timely and much-needed boost for the development of Chinese independent schools in the state.

He pledged the association will treasure and make good use of the RM1 million, while describing the additional RM2 million allocated as one-month bonuses for teachers as a wonderful surprise.

“This year can truly be considered a fruitful year for teachers, and we hope they will also cherish this act of generosity.

“We are deeply grateful for KTS Group’s thoughtfulness and recognition,” he said.

On behalf of the association, he expressed his deepest gratitude to KTS Group and the Lau family, and paid tribute to their long-standing contributions to Chinese education.

Chung Hua Middle School (CHMS) No. 4 principal Johnny Kon said he was deeply touched, grateful, and sincerely impressed by KTS Group’s generous gesture.

He said amid an increasingly challenging education environment, the contribution is not only practical support but also strong affirmation from society.

“This sends a clear message to all independent school teachers – that their professionalism, dedication, and efforts are recognised by society and valued by corporations,” he said.

SM Min Lit Batu Kawa principal Lai Soh Ching pointed out that the late Lau had long supported Chinese education through concrete action and his spirit remains deeply admirable.

She said KTS Group’s allocation for teachers is not just financial support, but a warm affirmation of teachers’ professional value.

“KTS Group’s gesture lets teachers feel their work is seen, understood, and supported, enabling the independent school community to continue forward confidently,” she said.

Serian Public Secondary School principal Tan Kiang Tuang said KTS Group’s RM2 million allocation demonstrates the company’s foresight in caring for education and its strong sense of social responsibility.

He said independent school teachers have long laboured quietly under resource constraints, and the bonus represents recognition and encouragement, enabling teachers to genuinely feel society’s warmth and support.

“At a time when educational pressure is mounting, the goodwill helps raise morale and strengthens teachers’ confidence to continue dedicating themselves to independent school education,” he said.

He called on more corporations to respond positively and jointly shoulder the responsibility of supporting education to build a brighter learning environment for future generations.

SM Wong Nai Siong principal Lu Yew Hiiung said Lau was not only a capable and responsible entrepreneur, but also a role model deeply committed to education over the long term.

He recalled that when the school was once at a low point, Lau carried out bold reforms, rebuilt a stalled sports hall, enhanced teaching staff and administrative management, and established a multi-million-ringgit education fund to support students’ further studies — comprehensively transforming the campus.

Kai Dee Middle School principal Teo Fong Ching said KTS Group’s goodwill not only reflects care for teachers, but also represents high recognition of the long-term contributions of independent school educators.

He called on more companies to help develop independent schools, and pledged that teachers will cherish this trust and give back to society with higher professionalism.

Pei Min Middle School principal Pui Mui Kiaw pointed out that the overall remuneration for independent school teachers is lower than that of national school teachers.

She called KTS Group’s contributions truly timely assistance that will not only directly benefits teachers, but also help stabilise the workforce and ease schools’ financial pressure.

“We hope more successful enterprises will follow KTS Group’s example, providing systematic, long-term support for independent schools.

“When teachers feel cared for, it motivates them to continue giving their best,” she added.