Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced today that Sarawak’s free tertiary education programme, which currently waives tuition fees for eligible state residents enrolled in diploma, undergraduate or postgraduate courses at public and private institutions across Sarawak, will be extended beyond its original 2026 end-date.

Introduced in 2022, the initiative has to date assisted over 11,000 Sarawakian students by covering their full course fees and supplying a monthly living stipend of RM200. During its initial two-year period, the programme allocated roughly RM700 million—a sum projected to rise with growing enrolment. “We are steadfast in our commitment to invest in our young people and arm them with the competencies required for the future economy,” Abang Johari remarked, emphasizing the state government’s resolve to broaden access to tertiary education.

Eligible candidates are Sarawakian citizens with a minimum of two A grades in STPM or its equivalent, enrolling in sanctioned courses at accredited institutions within the state. Authorities have teamed up with local universities and colleges to widen the selection of qualifying programmes, allowing students to specialise in areas that support Sarawak’s strategic development objectives—like digital technology, renewable energy, and the bioeconomy.

Abang Johari noted that a revised financing structure will be revealed in the next state budget, aimed at ensuring the programme’s longevity. By maintaining funding for higher education, Sarawak seeks to ease families’ financial pressures while nurturing a local workforce equipped to underpin the state’s industrialisation push and bolster economic resilience.

Making free tertiary education a cornerstone of Sarawak’s socio-economic policy, the state government expects it not only to curb “brain drain” but also to draw Sarawakian professionals back to the state, motivating them to apply their skills locally. “We hope they will return with their talents and innovations,” Abang Johari stated, “so that Sarawak can thrive as we enter the coming decade.”



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Note: This write-up was automatically sourced from reputable news outlets. The information is intended solely for general reference. Readers should confirm project specifics, costs, and investment choices with certified agents or official developers.

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About the Author

Danny H is a real estate negotiator in Miri, specializing in residential and commercial properties. He provides trusted guidance, updated listings, and professional support through MiriProperty.com.my to help clients make confident property decisions.

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