By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, June 19: Eligible Sarawakian students aspiring to pursue medical studies are encouraged to apply for Yayasan Sarawak’s special medical study grant, amid strong demand for medical programmes at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), where Sarawakians filled 105 of the 150 available places last year.
According to Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (Higher Education and Innovation) Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee, the special grant is intended for Sarawakian medical students who meet the eligibility requirements, including family income criteria.
“Entry into Unimas is high. Last year, 105 out of the 150 places were taken by Sarawakians. That is more than 50 per cent of the total intake,” he said during a press conference on the announcement of the STPM 2025 results at the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) building here today.
At the same time, Sarawak Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn also clarified that the special medical grant under Yayasan Sarawak is separate from the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).
Meanwhile, with Sarawak achieving another milestone in the Malaysian Higher School Certificate (STPM) 2025 examination when it achieved a higher overall Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.75, students have been urged to seize opportunities offered by the State government.
According to Sagah, his ministry is continuing efforts to improve student performance and strengthen future education strategies, while also focusing on developing a skilled workforce aligned with the State’s economic direction to support long-term economic growth.
“We are happy with the results, and I hope more students will pursue their studies at local universities in Sarawak while taking advantage of the FTES initiative,” he said.
He added local universities offer more than free education, as students who perform well can contribute to research and strengthen university rankings and reputation.
Sagah also congratulated students, parents, teachers and school administrators for the improved STPM performance, while commending the Sarawak Education Department for its efforts in enhancing academic achievement.
Also present was Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (Talent Development) Datuk Francis Harden Hollis. — DayakDaily
