MIRI: The Sarawak government is taking proactive steps to address the shortage of skilled professionals and improve educational opportunities for its youth.
According to Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, the Sarawak Foundation (Yayasan Sarawak) is offering scholarships for 40 to 60 top-performing students to pursue Bachelor of Medicine degrees at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS).
These students will be bonded to serve as doctors in Sarawak, with the long-term aim of becoming specialists.
“This is the Sarawak government’s incentive to address the lack of accountants, finance managers, and lawyers in the state while also bolstering our healthcare sector,” said Lukanisman.
The government is also providing financial support to families through pocket money schemes and technological resources.
In 2024, 5,000 laptops worth RM3,000 each were distributed to eligible students.
This initiative will be expanded in 2025, with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg doubling the allocation to 10,000 laptops.
Families with a per capita income of RM1,500 or less will be eligible for the programme, ensuring wider access to educational tools.
“To calculate eligibility, we consider the household income divided by the number of members. For example, a family earning RM6,000 monthly with 10 members would have a per capita income of RM600 and would qualify for the laptop scheme,” Lukanisman explained.
These efforts are part of broader government schemes aimed at fostering long-term development.
Lukanisman highlighted the importance of prudent resource management, noting that the state’s wealth is being directed toward building infrastructure, such as roads and schools, to benefit the community.
He also expressed confidence in the strength of the Sarawak government, led by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition.
“Our government is generating more revenue and achieving recognition. However, we must remain vigilant against attempts to undermine our progress,” he said.
