NOVEMBER 2025
Free Tertiary Education Scheme To Empower Sarawak’s Youth And Boost Economic Growth
SIBU, 9 November 2025 - The Free Tertiary Education Scheme, which will take effect in 2026, is set to remove the financial burden of pursuing higher education for young Sarawakians, especially those from rural and low-income communities, enabling them to achieve their academic dreams and contribute more meaningfully to the state’s future economy.
Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg said, the initiative is not merely a welfare measure but a long-term investment in Sarawak’s future.
“Its implementation comes at a pivotal moment, as higher education becomes ever more crucial for preparing individuals for the workforce and enhancing social mobility.
“With industries rapidly changing due to digitalisation and intensified global competition, there is a growing need for a highly skilled and educated labour force.
“By offering free access to tertiary education, Sarawak is tackling economic disparities while strategically building a future-ready workforce to support the state’s long-term growth and development,” he said when officiating the 10th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) at Dewan Canselor Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud, UTS, Sibu, on Sunday.
Importantly, Abang Johari said, the initiative was designed with flexibility in mind which is graduates will not be bonded or restricted in their employment choices.
“They are encouraged to seek opportunities elsewhere if they wish, and to return to Sarawak when ready, equipped with valuable experience and global perspectives.
“This is a testament to our belief in empowering our youth to grow, explore, and eventually give back to the community in meaningful ways,” he said.
Under the initiative, all eligible Sarawakian students studying at state-owned institutions such as UTS, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, Curtin University Malaysia, i-CATS University College and CENTEXS will receive full tuition coverage.
In addition, students from lower-income households will be entitled to a living allowance to help support their daily expenses throughout their studies.
The scheme, described as one of the most transformative policies introduced by the Sarawak Government, aims to develop a highly skilled and educated workforce capable of sustaining economic growth in key sectors such as technology, healthcare and engineering.
The Free Tertiary Education Scheme marks another major milestone in Sarawak’s mission to develop its human capital, positioning the state as a regional leader in education, innovation and sustainable economic development.
Also present, Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development and also Chairman Board of Directors UTS Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee; and Vice Chancellor of UTS Emeritus Professor Datuk Dr Khairuddin Ab. Hamid.