SARAWAK's plans to provide free education at state-owned universities by 2026 is part of the state government's commitment to reinvest revenue into the people, particularly in education.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state wants to ensure all Sarawakian students, regardless of their backgrounds have access to quality education, reported Sarawak Tribune.
"Since we have the means, we will use our resources to support our children’s education.
“It doesn’t matter their background. If they can pursue knowledge, they should," he said at the state-level Nuzul Al-Quran event at Darul Makmur Mosque last night.
Abang Johari also stressed the importance of using technology responsibly, such as social media, likening it to a knife — helpful when used correctly, but dangerous if misused.
Abang Johari also spoke on artificial intelligence (AI), noting that while AI can process vast amounts of data, it cannot replicate divine guidance or ‘hidayah’.
“To have the right mindset, we must return to the Quran. Social media, like a knife, can be used for good or harm,” he added.
He stressed that the government must be made up of knowledgeable individuals who can also uplift the economy.
He also mentioned that the state is preparing to provide free tertiary education to 25,000 students starting from 2026.
The programme will be available at institutions such as Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Curtin University Malaysia, University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), i-CATS University College, and Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS).
The initiative also aligns with the state’s goal of becoming a developed state by 2030, which requires a skilled workforce to drive innovation and progress. March 18, 2025
