By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 24: Beginning in 2026, some 10,000 Sarawakian students will benefit from free university education under the Sarawak government’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), involving an allocation of RM250 million.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the landmark initiative underscores the State government’s strong commitment to developing knowledgeable and highly skilled human capital alongside ongoing physical and economic development.
Under the FTES, all Sarawakian children who enrol in State-owned universities will receive free education starting in 2026.
A total of 64 undergraduate programmes have been identified for inclusion in the scheme, which will be implemented regardless of students’ family income background.
“This clearly demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that education is treated as a basic necessity, accessible to all eligible Sarawakians,” he said in his Christmas message today.
The Premier emphasised that the initiative represents not only an investment in individuals, but also a long-term investment in Sarawak’s future, aimed at producing a highly educated and competitive workforce capable of driving the State towards a high-income economy.
“In line with this initiative, Sarawak government is also committed to enhancing secondary education through the establishment of the Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School (YSISS),” he added.
He described the effort as a major step in the State’s education strategy, noting that YSISS will offer the Cambridge Curriculum and align Sarawak’s education system with international standards.
In his Christmas message, Abang Johari also extended festive greetings to the Christian community in Sarawak.
“On behalf of myself and my family, I wish a Merry Christmas to all Christians in Sarawak and a Happy New Year 2026. May we all be blessed with good health, lasting harmony, and a strong spirit of unity.”
He concluded by calling on all Sarawakians to welcome 2026 with renewed hope and a shared commitment to continue developing the State they love. — DayakDaily
