KUCHING – The Free Higher Education Scheme (FTES), set to begin in 2026, is expected to benefit around 10,000 Sarawakian students, depending on applications received from local universities.
Announcing the initiative, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn explained that the scheme will not cover all study programmes but will fully fund 64 selected courses.
These courses have been identified to align with Sarawak’s long-term talent development strategy, particularly in supporting the transition towards a green economy and an economy driven by science and technology.
“This is in line with our talent development policy. We need to produce more science-based workforce, especially in engineering and science-related industries.
We are preparing the workforce for the opportunities offered by the industry,” Roland Sagah said during a press conference held in conjunction with the upcoming Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference and Exhibition (APACE) 2026.
The minister clarified that the scheme applies only to the four universities in Sarawak, as other public universities fall under federal jurisdiction. Eligible students will not need to submit separate applications for FTES.
Instead, once they apply for admission into relevant courses at Sarawak universities, their names will be forwarded by the institutions to MEITD for payment processing.
Roland Sagah emphasised that the initiative reflects the state government’s determination to prepare a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting future industry demands.
By focusing on science, engineering, and technology disciplines, the scheme aims to ensure that Sarawakian graduates are equipped to contribute to emerging sectors such as aerospace, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Observers note that the FTES 2026 complements Sarawak’s broader education and innovation agenda, which includes investments in technical training, research, and digitalisation.
The scheme is also expected to reduce financial burdens on families, making higher education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
With the programme set to roll out in 2026, stakeholders believe it will mark a significant step in strengthening Sarawak’s human capital base while supporting the state’s ambition to become a leader in sustainable and technology-driven industries.
