SIPITANG: The newly completed RM11.3 million District Education Office (PPD) building here was handed over to the Ministry of Education (KPM) by the Public Works Department (JKR).
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the building, constructed on a site spanning over one hectare (three acres), began construction in August 2022 and was handed over to KPM on Sunday.
“We hope that with the establishment of PPD Sipitang, education-related issues in the district can be addressed more effectively and efficiently, particularly in terms of access to education and ensuring that no child is left behind,” she told reporters here.
Fadhlina said the new PPD Sipitang building, which includes an administrative block and other facilities, reflected KPM’s commitment to improving access to and the quality of education in Sipitang and Sabah as a whole.
She added that KPM remained dedicated to enhancing educational access and addressing poverty to ensure that no student was deprived of education.
Also present were Sabah State Education Department Director Datuk Raisin Saidin, Sipitang MP Datuk Matbali Musah and Sindumin Assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob.
Regarding the new school term which began on Monday, Fadhlina said RM150 in school aid had been distributed to parents for preparations, in addition to other forms of assistance based on their children’s needs.
She said the first week of school would be dedicated to orientation activities, allowing students —especially Year One pupils — to engage with their peers.
“This is part of KPM’s new approach, where the first week is a more relaxed period for students to familiarise themselves with their school environment, interact with their classmates and teachers and participate in activities before beginning the formal academic session.
“We hope this first week will be fully utilised to help students adjust to school life,” she said.
