DUN Sarawak: RM200 million for FTES 2027, target 10,600 students

KUCHING, Oct 12: Sarawak Government allocates RM200 million for the implementation of Free Higher Education Scheme (FTES) in 2027 which is expected to benefit up to 10,600 students.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative provides free education to the people of Sarawak who are attending 64 undergraduate degree programs at four state-owned universities.

"FTES is a transformative initiative aimed at ensuring access to higher education is determined based on students' merit and ability, without limiting their family financial background.

"By 2027, an allocation of RM200 million is available to implement this initiative, which is expected to benefit up to 10,600 students", he said.

He said this while presenting the Sarawak Budget 2027 at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference, here today.

In addition to free higher education, the Government of Sarawak also continued various assistance to strengthen student welfare and expand access to education.

Among them, RM30.5 million was allocated for free laptop programs for first-year students of diploma and bachelor's degree levels, while RM2 million was provided for book voucher programs.

The Government of Sarawak also allocated RM50 million for special pocket money assistance to Sarawak students pursuing diploma-level studies and bachelor's degrees at recognized higher education institutions across Malaysia.

Additionally, RM10 million is allocated in 2027 to continue the repayment subsidy of National Higher Education Funding Corporation (PTPTN) loans to Sarawak borrowers who have repaid more than 30 per cent of their total student loan.

The Sarawak Graduates Home Initiative (i-GPS) is also continuing with RM8 million allocation to provide flight ticket subsidies for students applying in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Labuan to return to Sarawak.

According to Brother Johari, every eligible student can claim a subsidy of up to RM300 per trip, with a maximum limit of twice a year.

In the meantime, RM18.5 million has been allocated for Sarawak State Government Loan Scholarships, Tunku Abdul Rahman Scholarships and Local Scholarships.

The Sarawak Foundation also provided RM206 million for student financing and student loans next year.