KAPIT: The long-awaited dream of residents here to pursue higher education in their own area has finally come true, with the official handover of the letter of acceptance for the construction of a new MARA Professional College campus between the contractor and the Public Works Department (PWD) on Saturday.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the project had been approved in 2019, but it took time to get off the ground due to the various processes that had to be completed beforehand.
“This project has truly been eagerly awaited and is much needed, as it will be the only higher education institution available after secondary school in this remote area,” he said at a press conference following the handover ceremony at the Kapit Civic Centre’s meeting room.
He said that the project, with a budget of RM79 million, will be able to accommodate up to 300 students.
“I was informed that the original allocation for the project was RM90 million, but following an open tender process, the contract was awarded at RM79 million, resulting in some cost savings.
“I hope the remaining funds can be utilised to complete any additional components or for future upgrades,” he added.
The Kapit Member of Parliament also said that the new campus will focus on soft skills rather than technical or TVET courses, offering diplomas in business studies, plantation management, information technology, and related fields.
“I understand from MARA that if there is demand for other diploma programmes, these can be considered,” he said.
One of the key benefits of the college is that students will not be required to pay annual tuition fees – only a one-time registration fee upon enrolment.
“Parents won’t need to apply for PTPTN loans or go into debt.
“What’s even more special is that students will receive a monthly allowance of RM300, which will be a great help, especially for those in rural areas like Kapit,” he added.
He said the campus would not be limited to Kapit residents alone, but open to applicants from other areas.
However, he hoped that, as long as the demand from Kapit remains high, locals would be given priority.
He also issued a stern reminder to the contractor to carry out the project diligently, aiming for early completion without requesting any extension of time.
“Do not compromise on quality either, because I’m aware the site presents some challenges due to its tough terrain,” he said.
The site for the project is situated along Jalan Song-Kapit and the project is scheduled for completion on December 5, 2029.
After the event, Nanta attended Gawai Dayak open house at Dewan Sarawak which was attended by Kapit residents from various walk of life.
