Unique school for street children gets RM30m hostel

Prime Minister Najib Razak says the school in Kuala Lumpur, with an enrolment of 143, was unique in Malaysia and probably the only one of its kind in the world.

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Najib Razak today visited Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih, the only school in the country for street children, and approved a RM30 million allocation to build a hostel there.

The prime minister said the future of the children at the school, in Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kampung Baru, would be more assured with a hostel.

“The future of the children at this school is unique and challenging. As such, the government decided to build a hostel at the school,” he told reporters.

SBJK provides free education to children aged four to 19. It was established on the initiative of the Education Ministry to provide street children in Kuala Lumpur access to education.

Najib was impressed with the commitment of school principal Zulkernai Fauzi, and the teachers in educating these children.

“They are doing something that goes beyond their scope of duties, for the sake of giving these children an education,” he said.

The prime minister also praised the teachers for their efforts in seeking out street children and getting them admitted to the school.

Earlier, in his speech, Najib said the school, with an enrolment of 143, was unique in Malaysia and probably the only one of its kind in the world.

He said the school helped these children obtain a complete education so that they would have a brighter future.

He also advised the children to study hard and realise their dreams.

“I hope all of you will study hard to realise your ambitions. We have to study hard. Do not skip school.

“Just now, my wife (Rosmah Mansor) asked what you want to be when you grow up. Some of you said you want to become doctors, bank officers, teachers and footballers.

“Some of you said you want to be the prime minister. Whatever your dream and ambition, you must study hard,” he said.

At the event, Najib handed over Aidilfitri goodies to the children.

He also announced the appointment of show host Aznil Nawawi as the icon and mentor of the school.

Deputy Finance Minister Johari Abdul Ghani, who is the MP for Titiwangsa, and Education Ministry Secretary-General Dr Madinah Mohamad were also present at the event.

-BERNAMA