CONSTRUCTION of SMK Dudong in Sibu, Sarawak, is progressing ahead of schedule, says SUPP Lanang chief Wong Ching Yong.
This was based on a written reply from the Education Ministry in response to a question raised by Senator Robert Lau Hui Yew during the Dewan Negara debate on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s royal address, he said in a press conference.
“As of Feb 28, the actual progress of the project stood at 3.28%, exceeding the initial target of 2.13%,” Wong said.
“I have passed by the site and construction progress looks satisfactory.”
The school is being constructed under the design-and-build model by Public Works Department (JKR) with 42 classrooms and a range of facilities.
The project is scheduled for completion on Nov 5, 2028.
Wong said construction of SMK Dudong and SK Dudong was first proposed by former state housing assistant minister Datuk Dr Soon Choon Teck, in response to overcrowding at SMK Sibu Jaya and SK Sibu Jaya.
“Unfortunately, funding provisions under the 10th and 11th Malaysia Plans (RMK10 and RMK11) were scrapped,” he said.
“However, with the strong support of Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, funding for SMK Dudong and SK Dudong was eventually approved under the federal budgets of 2020 and 2024 respectively.”
However, Wong admitted that he had yet to receive any official updates regarding the construction status of SK Dudong, which was approved under the Federal Govenrment’s Budget 2024.
“I am very concerned due to the rapidly growing population in Sibu Jaya and the increasing number of students.
“The completion of SMK Dudong and SK Dudong will be vital in shaping the future educational environment of Sibu Jaya,” he said.
