Free tertiary education: Abg Jo says no discrimination in students’ intake

There will be no discrimination in the intake of students at state-owned higher education institutions under Sarawak’s free tertiary education initiative which is slated to commence in 2026, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has assured.

Reiterating the state’s inclusive approach, the Premier says the government is prioritising the development of human capital for Sarawak to achieve its ambitious target of becoming an advanced state by 2030.

“Whether you are Chinese, Malay, Orang Ulu, Bidayuh or Penan, if you are eligible and qualified to enter university, you proceed and study at our universities.

Abang Johari said this in his speech for a Chinese New Year gala dinner hosted by the Federation of Chinese Associations Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions, at Borneo Convention Centre

Kuching on Sunday.

The Premier also reiterated that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) had never promised free tertiary education in the coalition’s election manifesto.

“We want to make our economy strong and we want to give back to the people because talent development is important,” he said.

Abang Johari also listed out other measures taken to promote the development of education in the state, such as recognising the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), providing grants to Chinese schools, and establishing international schools.

The five state-owned higher education institutions are Curtin University of Technology Sarawak campus, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak campus, University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), Centre of Technology Excellence Sarawak (Centexs) and I-CATS University College.