KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) has pledged to deliver high-impact strategic implementation of the National Education Blueprint (RPN) and Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint (RPTM) 2026-2035, following their launch by the Prime Minister on Jan 20.
UNIMAS Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit, said UNIMAS would strengthen its position as Borneo’s leading public university by prioritising sustainability, equitable access, inclusivity, and the empowerment of technical and vocational education training (TVET) with flexible learning pathways.
“The blueprints emphasise education that builds individuals holistically – knowledgeable, virtuous and resilient,” he added.
“UNIMAS responds through our ESG Policy and Low Carbon Campus Action Plan 2030. Higher education must build a generation capable of contributing responsibly to society and nation.”
UNIMAS’ recognition as Deputy Chair of the United Nations SDG 15 Hub for biodiversity conservation and terrestrial ecosystems reinforces its commitment to sustainability-based higher education.
The university has integrated solar energy technology throughout its campus and achieved outstanding results in the Times Higher Education World Impact Rankings 2025.
In line with both blueprints’ emphasis on equitable access, UNIMAS fully supports the government’s initiative to provide free education for students with disabilities and those from hardcore poor families.
He added that the university is strengthening its student support ecosystem through the Sulong Excellence Incentive for 2025/2026, endowment and waqf funds, including the ‘Kasih Insani’ Programme and faculty-based ‘Tabung Ilmu’ via e-Donation, plus inclusive infrastructure and disability-friendly digital learning systems.
UNIMAS supports the Ministry of Higher Education’s realignment of Matriculation and Form 6 programmes to produce better-integrated, competent students who are mentally and academically prepared for university.
He also said that the university is also enriching its General Studies curriculum with global citizenship, digital ethics, sustainability and humanitarian values integrated with Sarawak’s local culture and wisdom to develop graduates with critical thinking, responsibility and civic awareness.
Recognising that student well-being begins with the learning environment, UNIMAS is committed to increasing accommodation capacity and quality, ensuring safe, comfortable and affordable housing that allows students to focus on academic excellence and personal development.
The university is strengthening its meritocracy policy by guaranteeing places for excellent students through quality academic programmes, holistic learning experiences and special assistance that attracts top national talent whilst providing industry networking and international-standard research opportunities.
“Through synergy between the RPN, RPTM, and UNIMAS Strategic Plan 2026-2030, we are confident of producing graduates who are intellectually competent, possess integrity and demonstrate concern for community and environment,” Ahmad Hata said.
“UNIMAS will continue as a dynamic agent of change, ensuring quality, inclusive and equitable higher education is accessible to all Malaysians.”
