KUCHING: The proposed Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) in Limbang has entered the planning and design stage, advancing efforts to expand residential science education opportunities in northern Sarawak.
Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang said the project has already received approval and the site has been secured.
However, she said its progress had faced some delays over the past two years as Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) prioritised upgrading existing institutions and addressing manpower requirements, particularly while new staffing allocations remain under finalisation.
“Although the project in Lawas-Limbang was slightly delayed, it is now in the pre-planning and design phase.
“We are committed to expediting its implementation following discussions with Mara, in line with the growing educational needs in the area,” said the Kota Samarahan MP, when met at the at the book launching ceremony ‘Laila Taib : Her Journey of Love & Compassion’ and ‘The Tatars – Muslim in the Republic of Poland’ Exhibition at Pustaka Negeri, today (Apr 12).
She added, once completed, the MRSM is expected to primarily serve students from the northern zone, including Lawas and Limbang.
“Given its strategic location near the border, the institution may also accommodate students from neighbouring Sabah and Brunei.
“The project is seen as a timely development to meet increasing demand and strengthen educational infrastructure in the region,” she said.
The move comes amid consistently high demand for MRSM placements nationwide, with many applicants competing for limited spots each year. The new campus is anticipated to ease this pressure while expanding access to quality education under Mara.
