KUCHING – Sarawak will roll out its Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) in early 2026, a landmark initiative aimed at widening access to higher education and reducing financial barriers for local students.
The programme, scheduled to commence in February or March, will initially benefit 4,693 students enrolling in their first year of study.
These students will be placed across 64 approved courses at four Sarawak-owned institutions: Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus in Kuching, Curtin University Malaysia in Miri, the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) in Sibu, and I-CATS University College in Kuching.
At the official launch, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg described the scheme as a historic step in shaping Sarawak’s education policy.
He emphasised that the majority of courses offered under FTES are science-oriented, reflecting the state’s long-term focus on building a workforce capable of supporting its transition to a modern, technology-driven economy.
“Of the 64 courses, most are science-based, in addition to programmes in accounting and finance, law, medical sciences and psychology. This is because these young people will either enter the corporate sector or become professionals who contribute directly to the state’s economy,” he said.
The Premier highlighted Sarawak’s ambition to lead in clean energy and advanced technology, noting the importance of expertise in chemistry, physics and engineering.
“Now Sarawak is moving towards clean energy, and we need people who understand how to separate hydrogen and oxygen from water. This requires a strong background in chemistry and physics. We need individuals who can master and command modern science and technology,” he explained.
The scheme is designed to remove tuition fees for eligible Sarawakian students, regardless of socio-economic background.
This policy is expected to particularly benefit those from lower-income families, often referred to as the B40 group, who face challenges in pursuing higher education despite strong academic performance.
“With this, Sarawakian students who come from less fortunate backgrounds but possess talent will finally pursue university education for free. This initiative will further brighten the future of our young generation,” the Premier added.
To ensure sustainability, the Sarawak Government has allocated RM250 million from 2026 onwards to fund the initiative.
The Premier assured parents that they would no longer need to shoulder the financial burden of tuition fees, stressing that education is a responsibility the government is prepared to undertake.
“Let the government be busy finding funds for the people of Sarawak and the future of the state. Students, we love you. Our hearts are with you and your parents, so that they can live happily and higher education is the responsibility of the government,” he said.
The launch ceremony was attended by senior state leaders, including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, and Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, alongside other officials.
The introduction of FTES underscores Sarawak’s broader vision of strengthening human capital, fostering innovation, and ensuring that no capable student is denied the opportunity to pursue higher education due to financial constraints.
