SIBU: The announcement of Budget 2026 by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Monday (Nov 24) once again demonstrates the Sarawak government’s firm commitment to uplifting students from low-income backgrounds and ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder their ability to thrive in a modern learning environment.
Stating this, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Youth Central chief Councillor Kevin Lau Kor Jie said several key initiatives unveiled in the Budget highlight the government’s seriousness in empowering the youth.
“Firstly, the Sarawak government has allocated RM30.5 million next year to provide first-year diploma and degree students with essential digital tools such as laptops to support online and digital learning.
“In addition, RM2 million has been set aside for the book voucher programme, enabling students to obtain textbooks and other critical academic materials without shouldering excessive financial burden.
“Beyond digital accessibility, the Sarawak government continues to demonstrate progressive support for students who rely on study loans. The state will maintain its subsidy for PTPTN loan repayments for Sarawakian borrowers who have shown responsible financial discipline by repaying more than 30 per cent of their total loan amount.
“This initiative, fully funded by the Sarawak government and administered through Yayasan Sarawak, has to date disbursed RM117 million, directly benefiting 33,000 Sarawakian PTPTN borrowers. For the year 2026, an additional RM15 million has been allocated to sustain this important financial assistance programme.”
Lau, who is also SUPP Bawang Assan chairman, pointed out that these initiatives collectively reaffirm the Sarawak government’s consistent policy focus: to look after the welfare of students, especially those from low-income families.
“Not only is the government ensuring access to essential digital tools for effective online learning, but it is also providing meaningful financial support to Sarawakian students who have taken PTPTN loans to pursue higher education at public or private universities.”
He said SUPP Youth welcomes and fully supports these measures, which reflect the Sarawak government’s long-term vision of empowering the young generation with both opportunity and stability.
“We believe these investments will continue to strengthen Sarawak’s human capital and ensure that no student is left behind in the pursuit of education and a better future.”
