KUCHING – In a significant investment in academic research, the Sarawak Government has donated RM5 million to establish an endowed chair at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
The contribution, announced by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, will fund the Sheikh Othman Sarawak Chair, dedicated to supporting student research initiatives and studying the legacy of prominent local scholar Sheikh Othman Abdul Wahab.
The Premier revealed that the endowment was approved following a request from UKM during the chair’s launch.
The generated proceeds will specifically provide financial assistance to students conducting research, with a particular focus on projects that can improve the economic conditions of Muslim communities.
He made these comments during his address at the Sheikh Othman Sarawak Chair Conference opening ceremony at the Sarawak Islamic Complex on Wednesday.
The chair aims to honor Sheikh Othman Abdul Wahab’s contributions as a renowned Sarawakian scholar by fostering academic activities, including research, publications, and programs relevant to his intellectual legacy.
This endowment reflects the state government’s commitment to advancing education and supporting meaningful scholarly work that benefits both students and the broader community.
