KUCHING: The recently launched Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) is set to play a pivotal role in nurturing the state’s own talent pipeline, aligning with the government’s long-term strategic development agenda under PCDS2030.
Abdul Samat Gany, a political secretary to the Premier, said the scheme reflects the GPS government’s commitment to building a competent, future-ready workforce, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
“FTES is more than a student support initiative; it is a long-term strategy to secure a sustainable supply of skilled professionals to underpin Sarawak’s economic development.”
Launched officially by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Abdul Samat added that FTES has been consistently pursued by the state government, dispelling claims that it is a populist promise timed for political gain.
“The scheme complements other key government initiatives, including large-scale infrastructure projects, digitalisation efforts, and investments in multi-billion-ringgit development projects.”
First proposed in 2023, FTES is administered by the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), which ensures the scheme meets the highest standards of governance and delivery.
“The policy provides free tuition for eligible Sarawakians at state-owned institutions of higher learning, including Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, Curtin University Malaysia, i-CATS University College, and Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS).”
While tuition fees are fully covered, he stressed that the initiative is not “cost-free,” as the state shoulders significant financial responsibility through annual allocations amounting to hundreds of millions of ringgit.
“This reflects the government’s commitment to institutionalising FTES as an inclusive and sustainable framework for education.”
He noted that the scheme is expected to benefit both students and universities in the long term.
“Participating institutions stand to strengthen their academic credentials and enhance their appeal to local and international students, further cementing Sarawak’s position as a regional education powerhouse.”
Abdul Samat added that FTES serves a dual purpose: alleviating students’ financial burdens while reinforcing education as a catalyst for state economic growth. Its implementation underscores the government’s strategic approach to ensure the initiative’s long-term sustainability through prudent fiscal planning.
“FTES exemplifies Sarawak’s vision not just as an education hub, but also as a key industry player in green energy initiatives contributing to the Asean Power Grid.”
