by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Nov 12: Sarawak is expanding its role in global education by offering opportunities for Muslim children from the Pacific Islands to further their studies at international Islamic schools in the State, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced.
The Premier, who is also president of the Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP), highlighted Sarawak’s commitment to contributing to education and human capital development in the Pacific Islands through the new student exchange initiative.
“We are going to give space and attention to Pacific Islands children by sending them to Sarawak for a better education. It is for the betterment of the ummah because we want them to receive hospitality and knowledge in Sarawak, and when they return to their countries, they will help their communities,” he said, after chairing the 36th Executive Committee Meeting of RISEAP in Seoul, South Korea today.
He added that international schools in Sarawak will play a central role in providing quality education and cultural exchange opportunities for these students, fostering greater understanding and long-term friendship among RISEAP member nations.
“The exchange of knowledge and values through education is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen international friendship and understanding. Sarawak welcomes students from our RISEAP partners and looks forward to deepening these educational ties,” he said.
Aside from that, the meeting, which brought together RISEAP’s leadership and representatives from across Southeast Asia and the Pacific, touched on RISEAP’s 2025 activities, updates from the Northern, Central, and Southern Zones as well as the Women’s Wing, and a review of the financial report for 2024. Members also discussed strategic programmes for 2026 and proposed the appointment of a new deputy president for RISEAP.
Premier acknowledged the strong cooperation between RISEAP and Muslim minorities in their respective countries, commending the organisation’s continued role in empowering communities and strengthening social harmony.
He emphasised that this collaboration reflects the shared spirit of unity, understanding, and mutual support that defines RISEAP’s mission across the region. – DayakDaily
