THE Sarawak government is scaling up its educational assistance programmes to ensure more students can access higher education without financial burden.
Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn reaffirmed the continuation of the Free Laptop and Book Voucher initiatives, first introduced in 2024.
He said as of the end of last year, a total of 9,581 laptops, and 3,015 book vouchers to eligible students in all institutions of higher learning in Malaysia.
“This year, we expect more students will benefit this scheme. In collaboration with Yayasan Sarawak, our implementing agency, we will be enhancing our promotional efforts and engagement activities to ensure that more members of the public are aware of the educational assistance available to students,” he said.
He said this in his ministerial winding-up speech in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
Sagah further said the assistance is available to all Sarawakian pursuing full-time studies at any public or private institution recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education.
“It targets students from families with a per capital monthly income of RM1,500 or below.
“The free laptop is reserved for first-year students to support them at the start of their academic journey. All applications must be registered in the My-Yayasan system,” he said.
On the Bantuan Kewangan Khas (BKK) initiative, he noted Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had previously announced an annual RM1,200 pocket allowance to every Sarawakian student enrolled in higher learning institutions across the country, regardless of household income.
“Based on our estimates, around 60,220 students are eligible for BKK. As of May 24, we have received 27,033 applications.
“I would like to remind all eligible students that the application deadline is Jun 1, 2025,” he said.
The minister emphasised that these efforts go beyond addressing daily expenses.
“They allow our students to focus on their studies, to dream bigger, and to progress without the weight of financial concern.
“More importantly, they represent long-term investments in social mobility, economic growth, and a fairer society for all,” said Sagah.
