MIRI: Sarawak students should take full advantage of the state’s free university education initiative and work hard towards securing a place in higher education, said Sarawak Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
Speaking at a motivation session and stationery presentation programme at SMK Baru here today, Lee said financial constraints should no longer be a barrier for students pursuing tertiary education following the introduction of free university education at four state-owned institutions.
He said students enrolled in 64 approved programmes at Curtin University Malaysia, University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus and i-CATS University College are eligible for free tuition under the state government’s initiative.
“If you are accepted into one of the approved courses, your university education will be free,” he said.
Lee described Sarawakian students as fortunate to benefit from the policy, which he said reflects the state government’s commitment to investing in education and human capital development.
He encouraged students to study diligently and strive for academic excellence, noting that the initiative removes one of the key challenges traditionally faced by many families.
“This time there should be no excuse about financial difficulties. The opportunity is there for you to further your studies,” he said.
Lee said Sarawak needs more skilled and qualified professionals to support its development agenda and reduce reliance on expertise from outside the state.
He identified engineering, accounting, energy, electronics, civil engineering, chemical engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI) among the areas expected to play an increasingly important role in Sarawak’s future economy.
“We want Sarawakians themselves to become experts in various fields and contribute directly to the state’s progress and development,” he said.
According to Lee, human capital development is crucial to achieving Sarawak’s goal of becoming a high-income region by 2030.
While the state is rich in natural resources, he said sustainable growth depends on having a workforce equipped with the knowledge, skills and expertise needed to drive innovation and economic expansion.
He also highlighted the growing importance of AI, describing it as a global trend that will shape future industries and employment opportunities.
Lee expressed hope that more Sarawakian students would pursue higher education and eventually contribute their expertise towards the state’s continued growth and prosperity.
The event, held at the school’s hall, brought together students for a motivational session aimed at encouraging academic achievement and preparing them for upcoming public examinations.
