KUCHING: Education and knowledge are key to ensuring equitable development and long-term prosperity in Sarawak, regardless of race or religion.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has stressed that the state government’s commitment to providing free tertiary education at Sarawak-owned universities reflects its inclusive approach to human capital development.
“To acquire property and improve our lives, it must be based on knowledge. That is why we must provide good education for our children in Sarawak.
“Our children must be knowledgeable and smart. We have introduced free education, irrespective of race and religious faith. Everybody is equal, as long as they are accepted into our own universities,” he said during the launching of UNIFOR Complex here today.
Abang Johari noted that Sarawak is currently the only state in Malaysia to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), adding that such recognition ensures that talent is not wasted.
“Why waste human resources? We must bring them together, irrespective of race, so that they can develop new methodologies and scientific knowledge to advance Sarawak,” he said.
Drawing from historical perspectives, he cited the ideas of renowned Muslim scholar Ibn Khaldun, who emphasised collaboration among communities as both an economic and social foundation for improving living standards.
Abang Johari also highlighted the importance of equipping the younger generation with advanced technological knowledge, including in the field of satellite technology.
“When I talk about satellites, I want our children to master such knowledge. Today, even small satellites like CubeSats and low-earth orbit systems can capture images and store data.
“This is the world we are living in now, where data is stored in the cloud and communication relies on signals, not just fibre optics,” he said.
He added that Sarawak must embrace these technological advancements to remain competitive, noting that the state’s future depends on the ability of its younger generation to adapt and innovate.
“If our forefathers could succeed in their time, I am confident that with knowledge and unity, our present and future generations can achieve even greater success,” he said.
