By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 18: Sarawak has become the first in Malaysia and this region to offer free tertiary education to its citizens, with no quota imposed under the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the scheme is open to all eligible Sarawakian students, regardless of social background, as long as they meet university admission requirements.
“There is no quota for FTES. As long as you can get into the identified courses in Sarawak-owned universities and you truly want to learn, the government will support you,” he told reporters after launching FTES at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre today.
Eligibility includes students who have passed recognised examinations, including SPM with mandatory Bahasa Malaysia credit, as well as Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) graduates from Chinese schools, provided they meet entry requirements.
“Why do we recognise UEC? As long as it is recognised by renowned universities, and you have Bahasa Malaysia credit, we give you free tertiary education,” he said.
Abang Johari said the initiative places Sarawak alongside countries such as Germany that practise free tertiary education, and reflects the State government’s commitment to developing human capital to match its abundant natural resources.
“We are blessed with natural resources, but without human capital, we cannot add value. Knowledge is the key as we are now transitioning towards a modern and more advanced economy,” he said.
He added that more programmes beyond the initial 64 courses will be introduced over time to meet workforce needs in Sarawak’s evolving, knowledge-based economy.
Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Deputy Minister of Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Dr Jerip Susil and Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
