KUCHING – Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg has announced a RM5 million contribution to establish the Tanjung Lobang College Alumni Association Endowment Fund.
The initiative, revealed during the Alumni Association Reunion and Charity Dinner at Raia Hotel on 11 July 2026, is aimed at strengthening alumni involvement in human capital development and community empowerment.
The Premier emphasised that the fund must be managed with prudence and sustainability to ensure long-term benefits.
He explained that returns from the endowment should be channelled into academic programmes, forums, and educational initiatives that provide value to the younger generation and the wider community.
“I am providing an endowment fund of RM5 million. Manage it well so that its returns are sustainable and can be used to organise programmes that provide value to the community,” he said.
Abang Johari highlighted the importance of alumni sharing their experiences, particularly those who once faced challenges in pursuing education.
He noted that such stories could inspire younger Sarawakians to overcome obstacles in a world that is becoming increasingly complex.
Education, he stressed, remains the most effective tool to eradicate poverty and open opportunities in the knowledge-based economy.
In line with this, the Sarawak government has introduced free higher education in state-owned institutions, supported by living allowances, laptops, and learning assistance.
These measures are designed to ensure that students from low- and middle-income families can pursue studies without financial burden, while also producing skilled human capital for the future economy.
The Premier also underscored the importance of multilingual proficiency, stating that mastery of languages such as English and Mandarin provides Sarawakians with a competitive edge in the global economy.
He encouraged alumni to mentor younger generations, sharing expertise and leadership values to nurture professionals and entrepreneurs who can contribute to Sarawak’s development.
Touching on the state’s economic progress, Abang Johari said Sarawak is now recognised internationally for policies that emphasise sustainability, renewable energy, and advanced technology.
He pointed to the state’s growing role in hydrogen development, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and next-generation chip technology.
Sarawak has already achieved capability in gallium nitride-based chip design and advanced data storage technology, positioning itself as a significant player in the global semiconductor industry.
He reiterated that Sarawak’s strength lies not only in its natural resources but also in its knowledgeable and competitive human capital.
By fostering innovation and encouraging alumni to guide the younger generation, the state aims to secure its place as a regional economic hub within ASEAN.
The event was attended by prominent figures including the Premier’s daughter, Puan Dayang Norjihan, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Asfia Bin Awang Nassar, and several senior state officials.
The President of the Tanjung Lobang College Welfare Association, Datu Haji Mohammed Sepuan Bin Anu, was also present, underscoring the significance of the occasion for the alumni community.
The establishment of the endowment fund marks a milestone in Sarawak’s education and development agenda, reinforcing the role of alumni as partners in shaping a stronger, more inclusive society.
