KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak Government is currently exploring suitable ways to extend the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) to public universities (IPTA) beyond state-owned institutions.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state is studying the matter carefully, as public universities are managed by the federal government and subject to certain administrative conditions that limit Sarawak’s ability to intervene directly.
“That is one of the reasons we have to study this matter seriously. It’s not easy to implement, especially since universities like UNIMAS are funded by the federal government.
“I am looking for the best mechanism to assist, but for now, we are providing special financial aid (pocket money) to Sarawakian students studying outside state-owned universities,” he said in a townhall session during the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2025 programme here today.
Abang Johari explained that any form of intervention requires coordination with the management of federally funded universities.
“We need to resolve these administrative issues first. Once that is settled, then we can find the right method,” he said.
He also pointed out challenges faced by students applying through Unit Pengambilan Universiti (UPU), where course placements often do not match their intended fields of study.
“For instance, if a student applies for engineering, they may end up being offered a place in arts instead. That’s why we need to study this carefully. When we fund a student for engineering, I want them to pursue engineering – not to be redirected to another field,” he said.
The Premier added that while the government continues to offer scholarships and study loans for students – including postgraduate studies – it is also working to secure placement opportunities for top-performing Sarawakian students in world-class universities.
“We have requested fixed placements in institutions such as the London School of Economics (LSE), Cambridge, Oxford. We want to ensure our best minds have access to the highest levels of education,” he said.
He noted that the state is especially focused on developing talent in STEM disciplines, including aerospace, as part of Sarawak’s long-term vision.
“In short, the matter is still under detailed study. We are not rejecting the idea, but we need to find the right mechanism – especially for universities not funded by the Sarawak Government. For state-funded universities, we have the authority to manage both the institutions and our students,” he said.
