KOTA PADAWAN: The Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) is expected to widen access for Sarawakian youths to pursue engineering and technical disciplines, particularly semiconductor chip design, in line with the state’s ambition to emerge as a regional technology hub.
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah said students should fully leverage FTES by enrolling in high-impact fields such as engineering, aeronautics, aerospace and avionics offered by state-owned institutions, including i-CATS University College.
He said graduates from engineering programmes would also have opportunities to undergo advanced, hands-on training at the Sarawak Microelectronics Semiconductor Design Academy (SMD), where they would be exposed to real-world chip design.
“University education focuses largely on theory. The actual skills in chip design and development are acquired through practical training after graduation,” he said during the First Day of School 2026 programme at SMK Tun Abdul Razak here on Monday (Jan 12).
Sagah added that Sarawak has also strengthened its technical training ecosystem through institutions such as Sarawak Skills, the Centre of Excellence for Technology (CENTEXS) and other training centres to ensure graduates are equipped with industry-relevant competencies.
On the semiconductor sector, he said global competition among major powers is increasingly centred on chip technology, while Sarawak is focusing on developing chips for strategic applications, including satellite and aerospace use.
“If we are able to develop chips for satellites, issues such as internet connectivity can be addressed more effectively through satellite technology,” he said.
He also urged students to prioritise science and mathematics, stressing that Sarawak’s future economic direction depends heavily on a technically skilled workforce in areas such as robotics, mechanisation and high-technology industries.
“To qualify for FTES, students must have a strong foundation in science and mathematics.
“Even for non-science fields under FTES such as finance, accounting, psychology and law, mathematics remains an important basic skill,” he said.
In a related development, Sagah highlighted the growing importance of psychology in addressing stress and mental health challenges among the younger generation, describing global trends in this area as increasingly concerning.
He said schools play a critical role at an early stage, with counsellors and teachers expected to actively guide students, not only academically but also in helping them plan clear and structured career pathways.
“Students need proper guidance to understand their potential and future direction so they do not feel anxious or confused,” he added.
