PTAs should serve as a conduit between community and local leaders

12 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) have been urged to take a proactive role as a source of ideas and proposals to elected representatives, in support of the development of schools, students, and the local community.

Kiulu Assemblyman, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, said that PTAs should not only act as supporters of schools but also serve as a bridge between the community and local leaders.

“PTAs must be open in voicing their opinions and constructive suggestions that can benefit both the schools and elected representatives.

“I believe the voice of the PTA reflects the genuine needs of the community,” he said during a Handing Over Ceremony of Contributions to PTAs of schools in the N.15 Kiulu area, held here on Friday.

Joniston, who is also the Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, said that teachers need to be involved in the holistic development of students and the community, while parents are encouraged to support efforts that benefit their children.

“We want both parties to complement each other in driving the excellence of our children, not just academically but also in terms of character and community awareness.

“This is especially important as Kiulu continues to progress in rural tourism, agriculture, and towards industrial development,” he said.

He added that the ongoing development, in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya Plan, requires the support and active involvement of the whole community, including schools, to ensure that the younger generation is well-prepared to seize the opportunities being created.

At the event, 24 primary school PTAs received contributions from the Kiulu Assemblyman's Service Centre as encouragement to continue organising activities that benefit both students and the community.

Joniston also expressed his appreciation to educators in Kiulu for their dedication and called for continued strengthening of cooperation between schools, PTAs, and local leaders for a better future.