Sarawak limits free tertiary education initiative to state-owned institutions

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Abang Johari (left) waves at students during the Sarawak Day 2025 townhall session in Miri. - Photo: Ghazali Bujang

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MIRI: The Sarawak Government will not expand its Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) to include universities that are not owned by the state.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this is because non-state-owned universities are under the purview and funding of the federal government.

“If we extend it to other universities besides state-owned institutions, it would involve those funded by the federal government. We don’t want to mix up our responsibilities with the federal government.

“How can we provide free education at institutions under the federal government? It is the federal government that should be offering free education to our people. That’s the rationale,” he said.

He was speaking during a townhall session in conjunction with the Sarawak Day 2025 celebration here today, which was attended by students from 16 secondary schools, 21 youth organisations and 11 public institutions of higher learning.

Abang Johari said the FTES will remain limited to Sarawak-owned institutions, namely Curtin University Malaysia, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, i-CATS University College, Sarawak Skills and CENTEXS, as well as the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS).

He said this is in line with the state’s aspiration to nurture a disciplined, knowledgeable and globally minded generation.

Abang Johari also stressed that the initiative is inclusive and benefits all Sarawakian students, regardless of background or religion.

“Our hope is for Sarawakian youths to be equipped with relevant knowledge for a better future. We offer free education to all, including B40 and Chinese students, so long as they are eligible for university admission,” he added.

“Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will bear the cost.”

Abang Johari (right) during the townhall session moderated by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department, Datuk Gerawat Gala. – Photo: Ghazali Bujang

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