Dr Sim: Talent development key to Sarawak’s progressive future

KUCHING (Feb 12): Talent development, rather than wealth alone, is the driving force behind Sarawak’s progressive future, with China’s talent-driven rise serving as a key inspiration for the state’s development strategy, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Speaking when officiating the Yayasan Farley 2026 Chinese New Year Community Care Programme at the Farley Supermarket at Mile 6 here on Wednesday, he said China’s rapid development demonstrated that a nation’s strength lies in the quality of its people rather than wealth alone.

“Many believe China is strong simply because it is rich, but its true strength comes from its talent. Money alone cannot build a nation—people can,” he said, adding that Sarawak’s future prosperity hinges on continuous investment in education and skills development.

He noted that the state government has anchored its development strategy firmly on education, citing initiatives such as the RM1,200 annual financial assistance for Sarawakian university students, tuition-free education at state-owned institutions, and the state’s commitment to partially settle National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans for students in public universities.

“These investments are not only meant to improve personal livelihoods, but to shape a stronger Sarawak. Our young people must become more capable than us so that they can lead Sarawak towards becoming a progressive and successful state by 2030,” he said.

Dr Sim also stressed the importance of values-driven development, saying that progress must be inclusive and compassionate.

“Development must not leave anyone behind. Regardless of race, background or income, everyone deserves opportunity, care and dignity. This is the Sarawak spirit,” he said.

He commended Yayasan Farley for its continued contributions to education and community welfare since its establishment in 2021, describing its initiatives as instrumental in promoting inclusive development and social cohesion.

When met after the programme, Yayasan Farley director Eiseng Lau said the foundation aims to expand its education aid across Sarawak.

Established in 2021, the foundation focuses primarily on assisting students pursuing tertiary education by providing financial support across a wide range of academic disciplines.

“While the Sarawak government places emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), we also support courses beyond STEM. As long as applicants meet our eligibility criteria, they may apply for our educational assistance,” he said, adding that the foundation shares the state government’s vision of nurturing future talent.

In addition to education support, Yayasan Farley is actively involved in community outreach programmes.

As part of the programme, 100 community care packs were distributed to underprivileged families here in collaboration with the Deputy Premier’s office, in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.

“This is an annual initiative. Besides Chinese New Year, similar programmes are carried out during Gawai Dayak and Hari Raya, with the aim of helping those in need and fostering a more caring and inclusive society,” Lau said.

Recipients were identified through close cooperation with the Deputy Premier’s office, which provided verified information on eligible beneficiaries in Kuching. Similar initiatives are also conducted in Sibu and Bintulu.

Farley Supermarket currently operates four outlets across Sarawak—in Bintulu, Sibu, Kota Samarahan and Kuching—employing more than 1,000 staff statewide.

While there are no immediate plans for expansion, Lau said the group remains open to future growth opportunities.

Among those present at the event were Farley directors Lau Siew Whye and Eijing Lau, Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, Padawan Municipal Council chairman Tan Kai, and community leader Datuk Temenggong Tan Joo Phoi.