MIRI – Sarawak’s free higher education policy, set to begin in 2026, will apply exclusively to universities owned by the state, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg announced during a townhall session on Sarawak Day 2025.
He emphasised that the state has no intention of extending this policy to federal government-funded universities.
“How can we give free education to federal government-funded institutions? It should be the federal government funding us,” the Premier asserted, adding that the Sarawak Government wants to manage its resources independently.
The state-funded universities covered under this policy include:
- Curtin University Malaysia
- Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus
- i-CATS University College
- Sarawak Centre for Technical Excellence (CENTEXS)
- Sarawak University of Technology
Under the policy, Sarawakian students will no longer be subject to UPU (University Central Unit) placements, allowing them the freedom to choose their preferred courses within these institutions.
The Premier’s remarks came during the townhall session titled “Sarawak’s Young Generation: Catalysts for Progress & Prosperity,” moderated by Datuk Gerawat Gala, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring). The session drew participation from students representing 16 secondary schools, 21 youth organisations, and 11 public higher education institutions.
Abang Zohari called on Sarawak’s youth to engage actively in shaping the state’s future.
“Youth aged 18 and above can vote and help determine leadership. If you believe in our policies, be part of the government’s vision for a promising future.”
He reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to building globally-minded, well-educated youth, underscoring the state’s aspirations to lead in green economy and digital innovation.
“In 15 years, we may no longer be limited to Asia. The global economy is shifting from West to East, and Sarawak must be ready,” he said, highlighting opportunities in markets representing over half the world’s population.
