KOTA SAMARAHAN: Sarawakian workers who wish to pursue full-time undergraduate studies will be able to enjoy free education offered by the Sarawak Government starting in 2026.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative was part of the state government’s efforts to develop human capital through lifelong learning,
He was speaking at the 2025 Workers Day Celebration at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here on Sunday.
Many Sarawakian workers interviewed by the Sarawak Tribune welcome the initiative, seeing it as a golden opportunity to pursue their educational dreams without worrying about the financial burden.
AZHAR AHMAD, 30, Food Panda delivery rider:
“I have always wanted to pursue a skills certificate programme, especially in wielding. That’s my target for a very long time. The skills certificate programme is expensive for me. That is why I am a Food Panda delivery rider. But with this new free education initiative, I feel there is a chance for me to learn that skill. I believe it will help me to improve and support my family better.”
NATALIA IVAN GABRIEL, 19, Sales Associate:
“I’m planning to pursue my education at i-CATS University next year. I started working this year in order to save some money for my education. I am happy and relieved to learn about the free education offered by the Sarawak Government starting in 2026. Since my family is also asking me to continue my studies, I think I will take up the offer. In future, I can also support my family better financially.”
HUSZAIRY SHAH ANUAR, 34, Food Panda delivery rider:
“I think that this programme is good, especially for youngsters, since many of the riders now are youngsters aged 20 to 30. I think they should continue their studies so they can get jobs in the private and government sectors. Since the state government is covering the fees, it’s a waste of opportunities if we, locals, don’t take up the offer for our future benefit. Since I personally have some commitment to take care and family to feed, I can’t pursue my education for now. But if I am able to pursue it in the future, I will.”
MASRIN AFFIRAH, 24, Utusan Sarawak reporter:
“I personally believe that this initiative is one of its kind. It is targeted at Sarawakian workers, often the overlooked group. Since this initiative will be fully implemented by next year, I might take some media-related studies so that I can upskill myself and perform my job even better.”
QHURRASHID IQBAL MULIADI, 21, Grab Food rider:
“I believe this is a positive initiative for our state, especially for those who are still interested in pursuing their education. I believe this initiative will help workers to improve themselves and get their desired jobs. It is difficult to get a decent paying job if you don’t have the necessary certificate or skills. So, we should make use of this initiative to pursue our studies. Since I have always wanted to pursue my education in a literature-related field, if there is an opportunity, I will grab it.”
SYARUL AZHAR MAHLI, 24, Grab Food rider:
“I personally believe this initiative will help many workers to achieve their dreams. There are people who work because they have financial issues. I believe this initiative is like a second chance for them to pursue their education. I will also try to upskill myself in the technical field so that I can get a better job as well.”
