By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 3: Sarawakian students enrolled at federal public universities with campuses in the State could be considered for inclusion in the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Responding to an appeal by Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit, he agreed in principle to consider extending the scheme to Sarawakian students at Unimas, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).
Ahmad Hata had made the appeal on behalf of Sarawakian students at the three institutions, requesting that their tuition fees also be covered under the State’s free tertiary education initiative.
“I agree in principle. However, I cannot make a decision today because we are currently under a caretaker government,” he told reporters after attending the 30th Unimas Convocation Ceremony today.
He said the proposal could be considered once the government regained its mandate, adding that the extension would be limited to Sarawakian students studying at the universities’ campuses in Sarawak.
He also clarified that eligibility would follow the 64 courses already approved under FTES.
Students from Sarawak pursuing their studies at universities in Peninsular Malaysia would not be included in the proposed extension for now.
“Those studying in Peninsular Malaysia will have to wait for now. I cannot make that decision yet because we have received many requests,” he said.
Abang Johari added that pocket money assistance remained available to Sarawakian students across Malaysia. — DayakDaily
