KUCHING: Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has proposed the establishment of a faculty of law at a Sarawak university to nurture legal professionals rooted in the state’s context.
He floated the idea when calling on Sarawakian law students to familiarise themselves with the state’s legal uniqueness like on Native Customary Rights (NCR) land laws.
He reminded them of the Sarawak government’s focus on creating job opportunities and emphasised the importance of returning home to contribute to the state’s growth.
Wan Junaidi made these remarks during a courtesy visit by nine members of the Sarawakian Students’ Association United Kingdom (SSA-UK) at the Astana Negeri last Tuesday (July 29).
He also encouraged students to gain experience in criminal and civil law practice rather than taking the easier path of conveyancing for quick financial gains.
SSA-UK President, Summer Bay, who led the delegation, sought views from him on leadership, law and Sarawak’s future.
Wan Junaidi shared his insights, focusing on Sarawak’s legal framework, and underscored the importance of understanding the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the Federal and State Constitutions, and the constitutional role of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri.
During the visit Bay highlighted the association’s role in fostering community among Sarawakians abroad through events such as festive open houses for Hari Raya, Gawai, and Chinese New Year, which serve as cultural anchors and emotional support for homesick students.
“These efforts reflect our mission to empower and inspire Sarawakian students to lead wherever they are,” she said.
Beyond celebrations, SSA-UK has also hosted meet-and-greet sessions with Sarawak leaders, as well as networking events with PETROS and SMD Semiconductor to connect students with Sarawak’s development agenda.
