Deputy Premier: Free tertiary education beginning of ‘Sarawakian class’ in Malaysia

Dr Sim posing with one of Chong's artworks as (back row from left) Yu, Loh and Hoan watch on.

By Ling Hui

KOTA SAMARAHAN, Jan 19: Malaysia will become a country with two ‘classes’—the ‘Sarawakian class’ and ‘non-Sarawakian class’ in the future, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He said those within the ‘Sarawakian class’ will enjoy special privileges, such as free tertiary education in Sarawak, a benefit not extended to the other group of Malaysians.

“Malaysia is heading towards ‘one country, two classes’ – Sarawakian class and non-Sarawakian class. What do I mean by one country, two classes?

“(For example), In the upcoming year 2026, attending Swinburne University will be tuition-free if you’re a Sarawakian. If you’re a non-Sarawakian Malaysian, you will have to pay.

“That will be the beginning of ‘one country, two class’,” said Dr Sim when officiating the opening of his former teacher, the late Chong Liew Syn’s art exhibition at La Promenade Mall here tonight.

Dr Sim emphasised that Sarawak is entering a pivotal phase of nation-building, a rare opportunity that comes only after 60 years of independence.

The development of Sarawak arts and culture will be a part of the nation-building process, he added, and thus urging government-linked companies (GLCs) to provide more support to local artists.

Also present at the art exhibition opening were Hock Seng Lee (HSL) Realty Sdn Bhd director Yu Ji, Hoan Gallery director Hoan Kee Huang, and Chong’s eldest son Ken Loh. — DayakDaily