MIRI: The Sarawak government has unveiled a series of educational initiatives aimed at empowering its youth.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin highlighted these efforts during the United Association of Chinese Primary Aided School Boards of Management Miri & Limbang Divisions’ Chinese New Year Dinner and Installation Ceremony on Sunday (Feb 23).
Central to the government’s strategy is the introduction of free tertiary education by 2026.
This policy will benefit Sarawakian students attending five institutions: i-CATS University College, the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS), University of Technology Sarawak, Curtin University Sarawak, and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak.
The initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens, ensuring that higher education is accessible to all eligible students, irrespective of their economic background.
Lee expressed optimism that supporters of Chinese education and dedicated educators will align with governmental policies to strengthen primary education.
“I sincerely hope that Chinese school supporters and dedicated teachers will align with the government’s policies and actively cultivate primary education, ensuring a strong talent pool for the development of Sarawak, our Land of the Hornbills,” he said.
Miri, renowned for its rich natural resources, is poised to become a pivotal hub for higher education in Sarawak.
Significant investments from both governmental and private sectors have led to the establishment of esteemed institutions such as Curtin University and the forthcoming Fudan University campus.
Additionally, two international schools are currently under construction, further enhancing the city’s educational landscape.
Stressing the importance of linguistic proficiency, the Sarawak government is vigorously promoting English education. This initiative aims to cultivate English-speaking talents, positioning Sarawak to excel in technology, finance, and trade on the global stage.
The government’s approach includes the implementation of an international curriculum that integrates English alongside Bahasa Melayu, equipping students with global competencies.
This curriculum, drawing from the Cambridge syllabus, has facilitated the establishment of five international schools across Sarawak.
These concerted efforts underscore the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government’s dedication to fostering a knowledgeable and skilled youth population, poised to drive the state’s future growth and prosperity.
Also present were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang and Penghulu Desmond Yap, President of the United Association of Chinese Primary Aided School Boards of Management Miri & Limbang Divisions.
