By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 5: The Sarawak Government should also consider extending scholarship opportunities for training at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom to students from diverse educational backgrounds, including those holding the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC).
Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang emphasised that the offer of such scholarships will definitely attract Chinese youths to choose to be part of our security and defense forces.
“Historically, members of the Chinese community have been underrepresented in uniformed services such as the police and military, often due to cultural perceptions or limited pathways,” he said in a media statement.
By widening access, Tiang believes it will encourage a new generation of Sarawakians, regardless of ethnicity or academic background, to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s security and resilience.
“Sarawak must continue to lead by example in shaping a society that values service, unity, and excellence and this initiative is a bold step in that direction,” he added.
Tiang highlighting these in expressing his strong support for Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s recent announcement that the State is prepared to send its youths to undergo officer training at the world-renowned military institution, as part of a broader human capital development strategy.
“This forward-looking initiative is not only timely but crucial, as Sarawak seeks to strengthen its capacity and capability in areas related to security — especially in border protection and marine defense within the South China Sea,” he said.
He said the rigorous training at Sandhurst would equip Sarawakian youths with the discipline, leadership, and strategic thinking essential for modern defense roles.
At the same time, Tiang lauded the suggestion by Minister of Works and Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi to revive the legacy of the historic Sarawak Rangers.
“The spirit of the Sarawak Rangers should be reawakened as a proud symbol of our local heritage in national defense. Their revival, in tandem with the Sandhurst initiative, can offer our youth a deeper sense of purpose and belonging in serving the State and nation,” he added. — DayakDaily
