SERIAN – A strategic engagement session held at SMK Serian has highlighted Sarawak’s commitment to strengthening its education ecosystem and preparing students for future challenges.
The event, conducted on 18 April 2026, coincided with the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and brought together educators, parents, and community leaders in a collaborative atmosphere.
The session was led by Dr. Les anak Met, Deputy Director of the Sarawak State Education Department, who outlined the state’s educational aspirations and the direction of national and state-level initiatives.
His presentation focused on three key areas: the Malaysia Education Plan (RPM) 2026–2035, enhanced student support, and expanded access to higher education through the Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).
Dr. Les explained that RPM 2026–2035 is designed to transform Malaysia’s education system into one that is globally competitive, progressive, and relevant to future needs.
The plan emphasises holistic human capital development, mastery of future-ready skills, and the strengthening of values and identity among students.
Turning to Sarawak’s FTES initiative, he noted that the scheme, beginning in 2026, will provide free access to higher education for Sarawakian students.
The programme covers four state-linked institutions: Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS), Curtin University Malaysia, iCATs University College, and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus.
With 64 study programmes available, the scheme offers opportunities in strategic fields such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Medicine, Accounting, Finance, Psychology, and Law.
Dr. Les also highlighted the various forms of assistance provided by the Ministry of Education Malaysia, including textbooks, early schooling aid, the Supplementary Food Scheme (RMT), the School Milk Programme (PSS), and dormitory food support.
These initiatives are complemented by the Sarawak Government through the Sarawak Foundation, which provides uniform assistance, local scholarships, and free transport services to ensure equitable access to education.
The engagement session was not only a platform for information sharing but also a means of empowering parents and strengthening ties between schools, families, and stakeholders. By fostering dialogue, the initiative aims to build a generation of students who are both competitive and resilient.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Yang Berhormat Tuan John anak Ilus, State Assemblyman for N.23 Bukit Semuja; Datuk Amar Micheal Manyin anak Jawong, Education Advisor in the Sarawak Premier’s Office; and Prof. Ir. Dr. Andrew Ragai Henry Rigit, President of the Bidayuh Graduates Association. Officers from the Serian District Education Office, SMK Serian educators, and parents also participated.
Overall, the session reflected the strong commitment of both the Malaysian Government and the Sarawak Government to ensuring that inclusive, quality, and sustainable education remains central to the state’s development.
The collaborative approach demonstrated in Serian underscores the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of education.
