In December, 2012 it was reported that the Federal government had allocated RM3.5 million for the rebuilding of the Ramakrishna primary school, and construction of the same was expected to be completed in 2014. In July 2013, a further RM 500,000.00 was allocated.
It is regrettable to note that it is already March 2014, and works have not even started on the new building, let alone its completion.
This school began as a feeder school for the children of the Ramakrishna Ashrama Orphanage which was founded in 1938, and was officially opened by the British High Commissioners wife Lady Gent in 1946. The present building was constructed in 1957 by the Ramakrishna Ashrama.
However, due to the building having deteriorated over the years, the Public Works Department had classified the dilapidated building as unsafe on the end of 5 July 2012, and the students had to be placed in temporary rooms which were constructed by the partitioning of the school hall into six classrooms.
The temporary classrooms are extremely inconvenient, unsuitable and not conducive as a place of learning for the 321 odd primary students. It is cramped and very warm and the students desperately need new premises.
I had in fact called upon the Federal government to expedite the construction of the new building way back in May, 2013, but unfortunately until today nothing has been done.
For the sake of the primary student, in particular for their safety and convenience, I urge the Federal government to immediately commence construction of the new building.
Towards this end, I will send out a letter to the Education Minister in my capacity as the State Assemblyman for Datok Keramat and as a member of the State EXCO requesting that the construction of the new building be commenced without any further delay.