KUCHING: Students benefiting from the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) should make the most of the opportunity by acquiring knowledge and skills that match Sarawak’s growing economic needs as the state works towards becoming the most developed in Asia after 2030.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak previously faced a brain drain, with many local students who pursued their studies overseas choosing not to return due to the state’s economic development level at the time.
However, he said the situation is gradually changing, with more highly qualified Sarawakians returning to serve in the state, including in the petrochemical sector.
“Our hope is for a bright future and, if possible, for Sarawak to establish itself as a sustainable economy.
“I believe the training we provide to these young people will help propel Sarawak towards becoming the most developed state in Asia,” he said.
He was speaking at the ‘Meet & Greet: Aspirasi Anak Sarawak – A Conversation About the Future’ held in conjunction with the Sarawak Form Six Student Leadership and Empowerment Convention 2026 at a hotel here today.
Abang Johari said Sarawak has significant potential in the renewable energy sector, particularly in hydropower, hydrogen, solar and biomass, which could serve as key drivers of the state’s economic growth.
He added that economic development across various sectors, including shipping, banking, media and agriculture, is also creating more employment opportunities for the local workforce.
As such, he said the changing economic landscape needed to be supported by an education and training system capable of producing graduates with relevant skills to meet industry requirements.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari stressed that the free tertiary education initiative introduced by the Sarawak government is also aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty through knowledge and skills development, while giving the younger generation opportunities to build a better future.
He said although Sarawak had attained high-income economy status, as recognised by the World Bank in 2022, efforts to increase household incomes must continue to ensure that the people also benefited from economic growth.
“To break the cycle of poverty, we must have knowledge. That is why we are providing free tertiary education to young people today, so that we can break the cycle of poverty,” he said.
He expressed hope that the younger generation would continue the state’s development efforts by making full use of educational opportunities while preserving unity among Sarawakians.
