KUCHING: The plan to provide free higher education for Sarawakians by 2026 will help reduce poverty as more children will have access to further study, which will eventually help them secure better job prospects and higher incomes.
Pertubuhan Pembangunan Insan Sarawak (PPIS) President Manjeet Kaur Sidhu said one of the primary barriers that hinder talented students from pursuing higher education is the financial burden associated with tuition fees.
By eliminating these costs, she said, Sarawak is sending a powerful message that education should be accessible to all, regardless of their economic background.
She said this inclusivity will open doors for countless individuals who might have otherwise missed out on higher education.
Speaking to New Sarawak Tribune on Monday, Manjeet said, this will help to level the playing field by ensuring acceptance into universities is based on merit rather than the ability to pay tuition fees.
“This commitment to equal opportunity reflects a society that values talent, dedication and ambition above all else.
“In addition, this is a wise move as it is an investment in human capital. By offering free higher education, Sarawak is investing in its own future.
“A well-educated workforce is vital for driving innovation, economic growth and sustainable development. This initiative will undoubtedly contribute to the state’s long-term prosperity,” she added.
Apart from that, she said, it enables individuals to break the cycle of poverty and aspire to achieve their dreams.
By providing free higher education, Sarawak will be helping its citizens climb the socioeconomic ladder, fostering a more dynamic and aspirational society.
Manjeet said such an initiative will not only benefit individuals but also strengthen the social fabric and economic prospects of the entire state.
“We are excited to see the transformative impact of this initiative on the lives of Sarawak’s students and the broader community, as it paves the way for a brighter, more educated and more prosperous future,” she added.
Meanwhile, Purple Lily President Suraya Bujang said education is a lifelong process which should not be limited to immediate school leavers but also encourage those who are already working and interested to pursue their study.
“It is a good initiative, in line with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all.
“We hope it will be extended to include second degrees to those with good results and have shown their commitment in their studies,” she said.
On Sunday, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg Tun Openg said free education at universities and higher education institutions owned by the state government for Sarawakians is expected to be implemented in 2026.
He said the annual projection of Sarawak’s income, which had shown an increase since 2020, had given him the confidence to set the expectation by the state government.
Abang Johari said the intention of providing free higher education was to ensure more Sarawakians were qualified and able to use new technology to drive the state’s development.
