The Sarawak government is making significant strides towards establishing a medical school at Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS). This initiative forms a crucial part of their long-term vision to enhance higher education in the state.

Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, shared that the project has sparked considerable interest from a prominent university in the United Kingdom.

Collaboration and Future Plans

“We have received a positive response from one of the top universities in the UK, eager to collaborate with us in the development of this medical school,” remarked Dr Annuar during the 2025 Education Development Programme Appreciation Night.

He expressed optimism for the project, stating, “I have been diligently working on this over the past weeks, and we hope it will come to fruition.”

By January 1, the government plans to assemble a team of approximately five experts to conduct a feasibility study and determine the best strategy for launching the school.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

“These experts will provide recommendations to the government on how to proceed with the establishment of the medical school,” he added. “This initiative is part of our broader plan to elevate UTS and create more opportunities for our youth,” he emphasized.

Dr Annuar highlighted the impressive growth of UTS, noting that student enrollment has surged from just over 1,000 to more than 5,000, reaching full capacity.

“Our next phase focuses not on increasing student numbers, but rather on enhancing UTS’ ranking and prestige, both in Sarawak and nationally,” he explained.

Free Tertiary Education Scheme

Additionally, he addressed the forthcoming introduction of the state’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTS), which will offer 64 courses across both STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and non-STEM disciplines.

Dr Annuar urged educators to guide students thoughtfully in selecting their academic packages (A, B, or C), stressing that FTS presents a significant opportunity for students to apply directly to their desired universities outside the federal UPU (University Admission Unit) system.

He encouraged schools to engage parents early in the upcoming year to ensure they comprehend the new academic packages and the opportunities available under FTS.

Acknowledging Educators

Dr Annuar also expressed gratitude to teachers for their contributions to successful programs such as Laman Ilmu, STEM50, and KLIKSPM (Klinik Latihan Intensif Kecermelangan SPM), which have resulted in notable improvements in student performance.

The appreciation night concluded with awards presented to participating schools, recognizing a total of 102 recipients: nine from the Laman Ilmu program, 33 from KLIKSPM, and 60 from STEM50.

Additionally, awards were given to 21 volunteers from the Rumpun Pewaris Sibu Youth Club (RPS) and the Sibu Bumiputera Graduates Association (PGBS).

Notable attendees included STEMPRO Secretariat Chairman Ts Abang Fairul Syamil Abang Mohammad and Rumpun Pewaria Sibu Chairman Abdul Hafiz Jimmy Dr Rozario.

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