Abang Johari launches the i-STU mobile application during the STU Diamond Jubilee dinner tonight. – Photo by Jude Toyat

KUCHING (Sept 14): A dedicated centre for the Sarawak Teachers’ Union (STU) will be developed in Samarahan near the upcoming Tanjung Embang airport, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the centre will serve as a hostel and venue for programmes such as courses, seminars, and gatherings, complementing the state’s education and infrastructure development agenda.

“We are developing a new airport at Tanjung Embang, close to Samarahan. If STU’s proposed centre is located there, it will be strategic – near Kuching, near Samarahan, and close to various education institutions in the area,” he said during the STU Diamond Jubilee dinner at a hotel here tonight.

He said the location would ease logistics for teachers and students, particularly those travelling from rural areas to Kuching for school-related events.

“When we consider STU’s request for a centre to host activities and accommodate members, a site near the new Samarahan airport would be suitable. It will be accessible and close to existing education hubs,” he said.

In conjunction with STU’s 60th anniversary, Abang Johari also announced a state government contribution of RM60,000 to the union.

Earlier, STU president Kullin Djayang appealed for government assistance in securing land in Kuching for the proposed centre.

“Our vision is to have a proper place or building as a centre for accommodation and to host activities like courses, seminars, and assemblies, especially to reduce costs for members from rural and remote areas when bringing students to Kuching,” he said.

Kullin said the centre would mark a significant milestone for STU in its 60-year journey, as the union continues to champion the welfare and professional development of more than 40,000 teachers in Sarawak.

He also expressed gratitude for the government’s continued support, including special financial assistance of RM500 to RM700 for teachers, despite them being federal employees, and the provision of free tertiary education for Sarawakians starting in 2026.

“These initiatives are deeply appreciated, as they ease the burden on teachers and their families. We hope such assistance can be continued and even strengthened in the future,” he said.

The dinner also saw the launch of the i-STU mobile application, which allows members to check their membership status, update personal information, access benefits such as insurance, and receive updates on workshops, talks, and academic programmes.

Several awards were presented, including the Excellence in Financial Management Award to STU Bahagian Sibu, Best STU Performance Award to STU Bahagian Kuching, Champion in Membership Recruitment (STU-level) to STU Bahagian Miri, and First Runner-up in Membership Recruitment to STU Bahagian Kuching.

The evening featured cultural performances, including a 24 Festive Drum show by SMK Wira Penrissen, a sape performance by BC Star Bungan Creative, and a special video presentation on STU’s history, before concluding with a lucky draw session.

Among those present were Engkilili assemblyman Dr Johnical Rayong Ngipa, National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) president Aminuddin Awang, and Sarawak Education Department deputy director (School Management Sector) Dr Les Met.