By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Nov 20: All Sarawakian students in higher learning institutions throughout Malaysia, irrespective of their family’s income, will be eligible to receive RM1,200 in ‘pocket money’ annually from the Sarawak government.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced this today with regards to special financial assistance for Sarawakian students in higher learning institutions.
During Lan Berambeh 2024 in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 19, Abang Johari announced special financial assistance in the form of ‘pocket money’ for tertiary students.
In his Sarawak Budget 2025 speech on Nov 11, he had explained that only students from low-income groups with household per capita income of RM1,500 and below were eligible for it.
“A few Honourable Members of this august House have raised their worries about using the per capita income as the eligibility criteria for this assistance.
“I have listened to these concerns, and I am pleased to announce that all Sarawakian students in higher learning institutions throughout Malaysia will be eligible, irrespective of their family’s income,” said Abang Johari when delivering his ministerial winding up speech at Sarawak Legislative Assembly here today.
To him, Sarawakian students studying in higher learning institutions are the talent pipeline for the State’s future, and that upon graduation, they will be the ones contributing to the advancement of Sarawak.
“I want our students to be able to focus 100 per cent on their studies and not worry about sourcing enough funds for food or transportation.
“This is the GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) government’s commitment to ensuring that the welfare of our young talents is well-cared for,” said Abang Johari who is also Gedong assemblyman (GPS-PBB). — DayakDaily
