Sarawak Energy Empowers Communities with Literacy And Numeracy Support In Baleh

KAPIT

5 MARCH 2025

Sarawak Energy reinforces its commitment to community development with the launch of the Baleh HEP Early Literacy and Numeracy Programme, aimed at strengthening essential learning skills for children and adults in Baleh and Kapit.

Developed in collaboration with i-CATS University College, the programme enhances learning through practical tools and effective teaching methods, empowering participants with lifelong skills. Through structured modules and trained local facilitators, it seeks to foster inclusive and sustainable education.

"This initiative marks a significant step in our efforts to promote community-driven learning. By partnering with local institutions, we aim to create an inclusive learning environment that benefits both youth and adults in the region," said Tan Hang Kiak, Sarawak Energy's General Manager for Baleh Hydroelectric Project (HEP).

He added that this initiative is aligned with one of Sarawak Energy’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillars which focus on education and youth development.

Sarawak Energy is implementing the programme in partnership with i-CATS University College, the Tun Jugah Foundation, and local facilitators, combining academic expertise with community-driven learning. Under the leadership of Associate Professor Dr Hajah Siti Zaliha, i-CATS University College ensures that literacy and numeracy modules meet high educational standards.

Meanwhile, local facilitators from Baleh and Kapit undergo structured training to deliver twice-weekly lessons, integrating learning into the community. The Tun Jugah Foundation’s Fort Sylvia in Kapit, a site of historical and cultural significance, has been selected as the programme venue, reinforcing the connection between education and heritage.

“With an initial target of 40 participants, the programme is also open to beneficiary communities, ensuring a wider reach and impact,” Tan added.

These efforts align with Sarawak Energy’s long-term strategy to support education, economic resilience, and self-sufficiency among communities impacted by the Baleh Hydroelectric Project. They also form part of Sarawak Energy’s commitments under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, ensuring that development is inclusive, empowering, and equitable.

Group photo of children from the Early Literacy and Numeracy Programme with Sarawak Energy representatives, I-CATS facilitators, and representatives from the district offices and communities.

Children enrolled under the Early Literacy and Numeracy programme performing at the launching

Handover of school provision to the children enrolled under the Early Literacy and Numeracy programme

Study session on alphabets and basic arithmetic starts

Children arranging the alphabet in a game