By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, April 1: The establishment of five new international colleges approved by the Sarawak government, including one in Miri, will bring numerous benefits to young Sarawakians, says Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew.
The five new colleges will be built in Kuching (2), Sibu (1), Miri (one in Beraya, Lambir) and Bintulu (1) and offer free education to Sarawakians.
In 2019, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Sri Abang Johari disclosed the State government’s plans to build these international colleges during a function in Kuching.
“It is a transformative initiative set to revolutionise education in Sarawak. By offering internationally recognised programmes, it equips young Sarawakians with skills and knowledge that are in demand globally,” Ting said.
He added, this not only enhances their career prospects but also contributes to the economic development of the State by producing a highly skilled workforce.
“In the years to come, the colleges will serve as hubs for innovation, research, and collaboration, fostering growth in various sectors and positioning Sarawak as a leading destination for quality education,” Ting added.
These international colleges will utilise the British curriculum, with English as the main medium of instruction.
The State government is currently working with Cambridge University to design the syllabus, Ting said.
“Imagine, in five years from now, when they finish their studies, we can expect a surge in skilled professionals in Sarawak…the talents in the State will be amazing, equipped with knowledge and expertise from their international education,” he told the media here today.
Ting expressed hope that establishing its own international colleges will indeed be a strategic move for Sarawak to regain control over its education system and assert its autonomy.
“By doing this we hope to get back our education autonomy,” Ting said. — DayakDaily
