KUCHING – The Sarawak government has allocated RM5 million to the Tanjong Lobang College (TLC) Alumni Association to support welfare activities, strengthen association development, and drive sustainable community programmes.
The announcement was made by Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, during the TLC Alumni Association Charity Dinner held in Kuching on 11 July.
In his address, the Premier urged alumni to play a greater role in guiding the younger generation by sharing their knowledge, expertise, and life experiences.
He emphasised that alumni reunions should not only serve as occasions to reminisce but also as platforms to expand networks and build foundations for nurturing future leaders.
“I am donating an endowment fund of RM5 million to all of you, manage it well,” he said, highlighting the importance of prudent fund management to ensure long-term sustainability.
Abang Johari drew parallels with the recovery of Amanah Saham Sarawak (ASSAR), noting that past investments in listed companies and IPOs had not yielded satisfactory returns.
He explained that ASSAR’s investment strategy was restructured, with 70 percent of funds now placed in fixed-income instruments such as bonds, while 30 percent remain in equities.
“Alhamdulillah, ASSAR has now been successfully recovered,” he added, suggesting that the same approach could guide the management of the alumni endowment fund.
The Premier also encouraged alumni to contribute to institutions and society according to their abilities, stressing that such practices provide lasting benefits to future generations and improve community well-being.
He expressed confidence that TLC alumni would continue to contribute expertise, leadership, and experience towards building a sustainable and prosperous Sarawak.
Recalling the history of Tanjong Lobang College, now known as Kolej Tun Datu Tuanku Haji Bujang in Miri, Abang Johari highlighted its role as a key educational institution that produced many leaders, administrators, professionals, and academics, including holders of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees.
He said the college’s legacy demonstrated the excellence of Sarawak’s education system and its ability to nurture talent.
The charity dinner was attended by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, President of TLC Alumni Datu Mohd Sepuan Anu, and other state leaders and distinguished guests.
Their presence reflected the importance of alumni associations in supporting education and community development.
The RM5 million endowment fund is expected to strengthen the alumni association’s capacity to implement welfare initiatives, expand development programmes, and support sustainable community projects.
Alumni leaders expressed gratitude for the Premier’s support, noting that the fund would provide a solid foundation for future activities.
The event concluded with renewed calls for alumni to remain active in guiding younger generations, ensuring that Sarawak continues to benefit from the contributions of its past students.
The Premier’s announcement reinforced the state’s commitment to education, community empowerment, and sustainable development.
