DATUK Masidi Manjun will take up the issue of the 79 temporary
teachers whose services were terminated following a directive by the Education
Ministry, and would fight for their right. Stressing that he symphatised their fate, the Tourism, Culture and
Environment Minister said although they might just be Sijil Rendah Pelajaran
(SRP) holders, their services were still relevant to society.
“I believe they should be absorbed and offered permanent posts,
especially those who have served for about three decades,” said Masidi, who is
also the Minister in charge of education.He, however, disagreed that the temporary teachers’ contracts were
terminated without warning as renewals were done on a yearly basis.
“Those whose contract expires this year were not renewed. But I
agree that they should not be treated in such a way. “They are the ones who are willing to go to remote villages to
teach, despite the low pay. And in fact, I know that some have served as
temporary teachers until their retirement … such act shows their determination and
dedication to teach the younger children to excel in their life,” he said in
his winding up speech during the State Assembly sitting yesterday.
He was responding to Kuamut assemblyman Masiung Banah’s call on
the state government to assist the temporary teachers whose contracts were
terminated. “They may be just Sijil Rendah Pelajaran holders, but some have
served for about 35 years. I believe they must have bills, house and car loans
to pay. It is unfair to terminate their services without giving the prior
notice. “The ministry should not have taken the decision so fast … their
services are still needed,” said Banah.
Theborneopost Online 28 Mac 2012