MIRI: Education remains the most powerful investment in shaping Sarawak’s future as the state moves steadily towards becoming a high-income and developed economy under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
Deputy Digital Minister, Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong said Sarawak’s progress depend not only on physical development and investments, but also on the strength and capabilities of its young people.
He was speaking at the Dayak Students Education Award held in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak celebration in Miri here today (May 9).
“Education is no longer merely a necessity. It is a long-term investment that will determine the future direction of Sarawak,” he said.
“The younger generation today represents our most valuable asset in ensuring the state continues to progress and remain competitive.”
A total of 115 students received awards during the ceremony in recognition of their outstanding achievements in the 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and 2024 Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examinations.
A total of RM24,600 in cash incentives were presented to the outstanding recipients.
Ugak described the achievement as a proud moment for the Dayak community and Sarawak as a whole, adding that the success of the students reflected determination, resilience and the refusal to give up despite challenges.
“The ceremony proves that Sarawakian children are capable of succeeding and competing at a higher level when given the right opportunities, support and access to quality education,” he said.
The award recipients comprised students from several schools in the Miri Division, including SMK Sains Miri, SMK Merbau, SMK Pujut, SMK Lutong, Kolej TDT Haji Bujang and other institutions.
Ugak said the event carried a deeper meaning as it coincided with the Gawai Dayak celebration, symbolising gratitude, unity and hope for the future success of the state’s younger generation.
He highlighted several initiatives introduced by the Sarawak government to strengthen access to higher education among local students such as the Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FETS), which began implementation this year at state-owned higher learning institutions including Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Curtin University Malaysia, University Technology of Sarawak and i-CATS University College.
Under the scheme, students recognised as “Anak Sarawak” and holding identity cards bearing the state code “K” are eligible for full tuition fee sponsorship for approved full-time undergraduate programmes.
Ugak said the initiative focuses on strategic areas such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as well as finance and accounting, which are considered critical in supporting Sarawak’s future economic development.
At the same time, he said the state government had also introduced the iGPS initiative, or Graduan Pulang Sarawak, aimed at assisting Sarawakian students studying outside the state to return home more easily.
The state government has allocated approximately RM8 million annually to subsidise travel costs under the initiative.
Ugak also urged Sarawakian students pursuing studies or gaining experience outside the state to eventually return home and contribute towards Sarawak’s development.
“Use the knowledge, experience and success gained to help develop the community and the state that raised us,” he said.
“Success is not solely for personal achievement, but also a responsibility to give back to society and Sarawak,” he pointed out.
