FTES extension to ease burden on families, says Chieng

KUCHING: The continuation of Sarawak’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) under Budget 2027 will help ease the financial burden on families while widening access to higher education.

Bukit Assek assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek welcomed the RM200 million allocation for the scheme, which is expected to benefit up to 10,600 students next year.

He said the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to making higher education more accessible, particularly for students whose families face financial constraints.

“A student’s opportunity to pursue higher education should be determined by merit, ability and aspiration, rather than family financial circumstances.

“By investing in education, Sarawak is nurturing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce to support its long-term economic growth,” he said in a statement today (Oct 13).

Chieng said the continuation of FTES demonstrates the government’s commitment to translating its education pledges into tangible benefits for Sarawakians.

Introduced in 2026, the scheme provides eligible Sarawakian students with free tuition for 64 approved undergraduate degree programmes at four Sarawak-owned higher education institutions.

He also welcomed the inclusion of eligible Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) holders from Chinese independent secondary schools under the scheme.

“Chinese independent schools have contributed significantly to Sarawak’s education landscape, and their graduates are an important part of our state’s talent pool.

“They should have the opportunity to benefit from FTES, subject to the scheme’s academic and admission requirements,” he said.

Chieng also welcomed additional assistance for tertiary students, including RM30.5 million for the Free Laptop Programme and RM50 million for student pocket money assistance.

Other allocations include RM10 million for National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loan repayment assistance and RM8 million for the Graduan Pulang Sarawak initiative.

He said these measures would help students manage living expenses and essential learning needs, allowing them to concentrate on their studies.

Meanwhile, Chieng welcomed the establishment of the Sarawak Education Council to strengthen education policy coordination and align skills development with the state’s future economic needs.

He hoped the council’s membership would reflect diverse educational backgrounds and streams to ensure different perspectives are considered in shaping education policies.

“Education is a long-term investment in our people and the future of our state.

“Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) walks the talk by continuing to invest in education, empower our younger generation and build a stronger future for Sarawak,” he said.