KUALA LUMPUR — The Sarawak Government has fulfilled its commitment to provide Bantuan Khas Kewangan (BKK) to 42,000 Sarawakian students enrolled in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) nationwide, marking a significant milestone in youth empowerment and education support.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, during the official launch held at a leading hotel in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, confirmed that RM50.4 million has been allocated for the initiative.
The BKK initiative delivers RM1,200 annually to each eligible student—disbursed in two phases of RM600 per semester—through the S PAY Global platform.
“Today, I am fulfilling my promise. The children of Sarawak are not only lucky to be born in this great state, but also fortunate to have a caring government that understands how to fight poverty and build a strong future for Sarawak,” the Premier said.
He emphasised that this support is given without discrimination towards students’ socio-economic backgrounds and reflects the state’s broader goal of producing a global-class generation of Sarawakian professionals.
“The world’s economy has shifted. Sarawakians must be prepared to compete beyond our borders,” he added.
The financial aid, previously announced during the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) programme, reflects Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)’s ongoing mission to support Sarawakian youths, especially those studying outside the state.
Also present at the launch were Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof, Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and other dignitaries.
Dato Sri Roland reaffirmed that the second phase of BKK applications will reopen in September, especially for newly registered IPT students or those who missed the first round.
“This initiative is not only about meeting financial needs but also recognising and motivating Sarawakian youth to stay focused on their academic journey.” he said.
