MIRI (Oct 18): About 70 Form 6 students and teachers from three secondary schools here were given a valuable opportunity to witness first-hand workings of Malaysia's highest legislative institution during a recent educational visit to Parliament in Kuala Lumpur.
The programme, organised by Miri MP Chiew Choon Man, involved students from Kolej Tun Datu Tuanku Haji Bujang, SMK Baru, and SMK Chung Hua.
To ensure equal participation regardless of financial background, Chiew also provided subsidies to help cover part of the trip's expenses.
According to him, the main objective of the visit was to expose students to the nation's parliamentary system, legislative process, and public policy framework - key components of the 'Pengajian Am' (General Studies) of the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) curriculum.
"Many of our students study about Parliament and government policies from books, but seeing the process in action offers an entirely different perspective.
"During the visit, they were able to observe how parliamentary sessions are conducted, how motions are tabled and debated, and how decisions are made.
"This real-life exposure complements their classroom learning and helps them better understand the democratic process," said Chiew.
"The Parliament is the 'house of the people' and that Members of Parliament are merely trustees chosen by the people to serve," he stressed.
During the visit, the students also had the chance to interact with several national leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof; Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni; Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli; Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.
Chiew said he was proud of the students' confidence and maturity as they engaged in meaningful discussions, asking questions and sharing views on topics such as education, health, youth development, and Sarawak's future.
"The Deputy Prime Minister shared an inspiring message, reminding students that hard work, continuous learning, and the pursuit of excellence are key to building a better Sarawak.
"He also emphasised on Sarawak's strength lying on its unity; that despite political differences, leaders must come together for the common good of the state," said Chiew.
The Miri MP also pointed out that such visits not only benefitted students, but also provided valuable insights to policymakers.
"When leaders hear directly from students, they gain a better understanding of the aspirations, concerns, and ideas of the younger generation. This promotes a feedback-driven policymaking culture that ensures national decisions are more grounded in the realities faced by the youths," he said.
Encouraged by the success and positive feedback from the programme, Chiew said he would want to make the Parliament visit an annual initiative, inviting more STPM students from Miri to participate.