SRI AMAN: Sarawak is looking at the possibility of offering free tertiary education to Sarawakians by the year 2025 or 2026.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) is currently conducting a study to assess the feasibility of providing free tertiary education.
“Our plan is to make tertiary education at the state-owned universities free for eligible Sarawakians.
“I have, therefore, asked MEITD Minister Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn and his Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee to carry out a study on whether we can give free tertiary education.
“Based on their findings, insya-Allah, I feel that under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in 2025 or 2026, we will be able to provide free tertiary education to Sarawakians,” he said.
He said this at the closing ceremony of the 20th Edition of the 2023 Sri Aman Tidal Bore Festival at the Sri Aman Waterfront today (Oct 1).
Abang Johari added that the free tertiary education initiative could be implemented by 2026, as he believed that the state’s economy will be strengthened by that time.
“If Sarawak’s income nearly reached RM12 billion last year, my estimate for this year is that there is a possibility our state’s income will surpass the 2022 record,” he said.
He added Sarawak has set up its Sovereign Wealth Future Fund which will bring benefits for the future generations in terms of education and also strengthening the state’s economy.
“What is crucial is that Sarawak continues to be led by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), as only GPS leaders have new ideas to propel the state and its people forward,” said Abang Johari.
