ON most occasions, Workers’ Day celebrations follow a familiar pattern: formal speeches, symbolic acknowledgements, and appeals for better wages or improved workplace safety. But this year, the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Sarawak was far from ordinary.
When Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stepped onto the stage at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre in Kuching, many in the audience expected the usual ceremonial remarks. Instead, they witnessed a historic announcement. It was a bold and forward-looking promise that could transform the lives of thousands of Sarawakian workers.
Beginning next year, any Sarawakian worker who holds a diploma and wishes to pursue full-time undergraduate studies can do so completely free. That is correct – the Sarawak Government will cover all tuition fees. All that is required from the workers is commitment to their studies. Let that sink in.
This initiative is neither a subsidy nor a loan. It is also not limited to young adults or recent school leavers. There is no age restriction. According to the Premier, even a 60-year-old worker may apply – so long as they meet the basic eligibility criteria: holding a Sarawakian ‘K’ status on their MyKad and securing admission as a full-time student at any Sarawak-owned institution of higher learning.
The announcement came as a surprise, but it is certainly a welcome one. This is what a genuine investment in human capital looks like.
A vision rooted in economic strength
An ambitious policy of this scale can only arise from a foundation of financial strength. Over the years, Sarawak has steadily climbed the ranks of economic resilience, earning recognition for its sound governance and forward-thinking approach. This year alone, the state recorded a remarkable revenue surpassing RM15 billion – a testament to prudent leadership, strategic planning, and wise investment in key growth sectors.
From diversifying its energy portfolio to creating its sovereign wealth fund, Sarawak has taken meaningful steps to manage its resources with long-term sustainability in mind. It is not surprising that the state is frequently admired and, at times, envied by others across Malaysia.
This admiration has not come without criticism. Some so-called national leaders and political figures have made disparaging remarks, accusing Sarawak of attempting to withhold or even deprive the nation of shared resources.
Such accusations ignore both the constitutional rights of the state and its consistent contributions to the country’s development.
Instead of engaging in political retaliation or hoarding wealth, Sarawak has chosen a different path – one rooted in reinvestment.
By empowering its workforce to pursue higher education, the state is nurturing a generation that will be more skilled, more adaptable, and better equipped to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive global economy.
Lifelong learning, finally made possible
We often hear public figures champion the idea of lifelong learning. It’s a phrase that fits neatly into policy papers and campaign speeches.
But rarely is it translated into action in such a clear, accessible, and inclusive way. Kudos to the Sarawak government – especially Premier Abang Johari and his team – for turning words into meaningful action.
He stressed that this initiative is designed to help workers stay relevant in an era of rapid technological advancement. He encouraged those in the workforce to consider returning to Sarawak-owned institutions such as Swinburne University, Curtin University, and iCATS to upgrade their qualifications, particularly in technical fields where skilled talent is in demand.
He also made an important distinction: in today’s economy, productivity is no longer defined by manual labour alone. Expertise and knowledge are the new benchmarks.
As he put it, “Technology is created by humans and still requires human involvement. What’s needed are smart workers whose productivity aligns with their expertise.”
It is important to note that the programme only applies to studying full-time. Part-time or distance learning students, including those enrolled in PJJ (Pengajian Jarak Jauh or Distance Learning) programmes, are not eligible.
The government wants participants to immerse themselves fully in the academic environment, vital for comprehensive learning and growth.
More than just a degree
This policy is about more than just earning a degree. It is about restoring hope and expanding possibilities. For many workers who left school early to support their families, higher education has always seemed out of reach. Now, that dream is possible again.
Imagine a factory supervisor who has always dreamed of studying engineering. Picture a clerk with aspirations of becoming a teacher. Think of a single mother who never had the chance to complete her education. Today, each of them has a genuine opportunity to rewrite their story.
This, I dare say, is more than just public policy – it is empowerment in its truest and most transformative form.
A model worth watching
As this initiative prepares to launch next year, it will be closely watched – not just by Sarawakians, but by the rest of the nation. If it proves successful, Sarawak may set a new benchmark for what regional or state governments can and should do to elevate their people.
In a time when education is often seen as a private burden rather than a public right, Sarawak is making a powerful statement. It is reminding us that education is not an expense. It is an investment.
And when a government chooses to invest in the dreams and aspirations of its workers, it is not just strengthening its economy. It is building a society that is smarter, more compassionate, and ready for the future.
Aden Nagrace is the Editor-in-Chief of Sarawak Tribune. However, the views expressed here are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sarawak Tribune. He can be reached at drnagrace@gmail.com.
