KUCHING: Twenty students from Belaga pursuing diploma and degree studies have received a total of RM8,000 in educational incentives from the Bakun Trust Fund.
Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang said the initiative reflects the fund’s continued commitment to supporting Belaga youths in their pursuit of higher education.
He noted that more than 5,000 students from Belaga have benefited from the Fund since its establishment.
“Our population may be small, but the community’s commitment to education has produced remarkable results. Supporting our children ensures they reach their full potential,” he said during the Belaga District Youth Dinner 2025 and the 28th Anniversary of the Bakun Trust Fund held at a hotel here, last night (Oct 5).
The Belaga assemblyman also recalled friends who were academically talented but unable to overcome life’s challenges, stressing that perseverance is just as important as intelligence.
“If you look at our leaders in Belaga today, they are people who pursued education despite the difficulties they faced,” he added.
Liwan, who is also the Bakun Trust Fund chairman, further encouraged students to avoid negative influences and assured that the fund would continue to provide assistance to ensure no student is left behind due to financial constraints.
“Education is a vital tool, but it must be paired with wisdom and perseverance. Those who succeed are not only academically capable but also able to overcome the challenges life throws at them.
“I urge our youths to make the most of these opportunities and respect the knowledge they gain with wisdom,” he said.
The event celebrated both the achievements of local youths and the enduring role of the Bakun Trust Fund in promoting higher education and community development in Belaga.
For the record, diploma recipients each received RM200, while degree recipients received RM300.
