KUCHING: Sarawak aspired to become an ASEAN influencer in talent, technology and education, with free tertiary education forming the foundation of its long-term economic transformation.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) was part of the state’s effort to set the pace for education-driven growth in the region, drawing parallels with the term “influencer” popular among Generation Z.
“Let Sarawak be the influencer in this region. I believe we can do it. This is only the first step in 2026.
“Nordic countries have free education. Germany does as well and Sarawak is among the first in this region to provide free tertiary education to its students.
“Sarawakian children, this is your time,” he said when officiating at the launch of the FTES at the Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today.
Addressing students directly, he said the government had taken over the responsibility of funding tertiary education to ease the burden on families.
“Your parents do not need to worry. The government has taken that responsibility. You are not only the children of your parents – you are anak Sarawak. Make sure Sarawak prospers,” he added.
Abang Johari said Sarawak must not remain trapped in a middle-income economy and should position itself at the forefront.
He pointed to Sarawak’s involvement in advanced microelectronics research, including the development of an AI-powered chip by Sarawakian researchers at a research centre in Cardiff, the United Kingdom.
He said the state aimed to develop its own competitive chip designs, positioning Sarawak as a frontrunner in semiconductor and chip technology, including applications involving humanoid robots powered by advanced chips.
“I hope you will be the people inventing new chip technology for the world,” he said.
On energy transition, Abang Johari said Sarawak was moving towards a modern economy anchored in clean and green energy, particularly hydrogen.
He said the transition would require strong expertise in science and technology, especially chemistry and physics, to enable the separation of hydrogen and oxygen from water.
“We need people who can command modern science and technology.
“If Sarawak students are that bright, let them be the ones who do the experiments and add value to our resources,” he said.
