KUCHING: Politeknik Kuching Sarawak (PKS) continues to advance its mission of producing high-quality, industry-ready graduates while working closely with the Sarawak Government to enhance human capital development and student welfare through initiatives such as the Sarawak Rental Assistance Scheme (SRAS).
According to the Deputy Director (Academic) of PKS, Aidawati Mustapha, the institution, established in 1988 as Malaysia’s fifth polytechnic, now stands as a key player in Sarawak’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) landscape.
However, she said that as the campus enters its 37th year, upgrading and modernising its infrastructure has become an urgent priority.
“Modern, safe and conducive learning facilities are essential to ensure that teaching and learning processes remain effective and align with current industry needs.
“Many of our existing facilities, particularly student hostels, are now ageing and require significant refurbishment,” she said during the Premier’s Education Initiatives Briefing officiated by the Premier’s Department at the Dewan Jubli Perak, Politeknik Kuching, on Wednesday.
Since its founding, PKS has produced 35,222 graduates and currently has 4,174 active students, 92 per cent of whom are Sarawakians, supported by 457 staff members.
Aidawati said the polytechnic remains committed to its goal of nurturing competent graduates who can meet workforce demands and strengthen the State’s skilled talent base.
She added that PKS’ graduate employability rate has remained consistently above 90 per cent over the past four years, reflecting strong industry confidence in its programmes.
Among its most recent achievements, Muhammad Safwan Habib, a Diploma in Information Technology (Digital Technology) student, represented Malaysia at the WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025 competition, where he earned a Medallion for Excellence in IT Network Systems Administration.
“This success demonstrates that our students are capable of competing at the international level and that Sarawak’s TVET ecosystem continues to produce globally competitive talent,” she said.
Turning to student welfare, Aidawati highlighted that 67 per cent (2,811) of PKS students come from the B40 income group, many of whom have benefitted from various government initiatives aimed at reducing living costs and ensuring educational continuity.
She commended the state government’s proactive efforts through SRAS, which she described as a forward-looking initiative to help low-income families secure affordable, comfortable housing.
“SRAS reflects the government’s concern for the well-being of its people.
“Beyond providing accommodation, it creates an environment where students can study peacefully, parents can work with focus, and families can thrive together,” she said.
She concluded that such partnerships represent long-term investments in Sarawak’s prosperity and the well-being of its people.
“Through the synergy between government and education, we are building a progressive and resilient society, one that contributes meaningfully to the sustainable growth and shared future of Sarawak,” she said.
