A total of 300 students from 15 schools across Sarawak have received free prescription glasses under the “They See, They Learn” programme, organised by Yayasan Ikram Malaysia (yaIKRAM) with support from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia.
The official handover ceremony was held at SK Combined on Tuesday. The initiative is aimed at assisting students from low-income families whose vision problems may hinder their learning. By providing corrective glasses, the programme seeks to enhance academic focus while easing the financial burden on parents.
China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, expressed gratitude to yaIKRAM, the Sarawak Education Department (JPNS), and district education offices for their collaboration. He described the contribution as a symbol of enduring friendship between Malaysia and China, quoting the Malay proverb “air yang dicincang tidak akan putus” — a bond that cannot be broken.
“Care for children transcends cultural boundaries. We donated these glasses to help Sarawak’s schoolchildren see better and learn more comfortably,” he said, encouraging beneficiaries to study diligently and become future pillars of the nation.
yaIKRAM chairman Ainullotfi Abdul Latif highlighted that the programme was motivated by concern over educational challenges faced by B40 (low-income) students. “Vision problems can be a major obstacle to excellence. Through this programme, we are not just giving glasses—we are giving opportunities, confidence, and hope,” he said.
The initiative was implemented with the support of JPNS and district education offices in Kuching, Bintulu, Miri, Kota Samarahan, Daro, and Sarikei, which helped identify students in need. Recognition was also given to IKRAM Sarawak, the headmasters of SK Combined and SK Bako, and participating optometrists who assisted in the vision screening.
yaIKRAM is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to community development and supporting vulnerable groups through education, welfare, and community programmes.
