‘Even heartbreak can make people give up’: Abang Johari highlights need for psychologists

Abang Johari (back row, 12th left) in a group photo with Sarawak leaders and successful FTES applicants during the Sarawakku Sayang Sibu event on July 11, 2026. Photo credit: UKAS

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, July 11: Future generations may face greater mental stress as lifestyles change, making psychology experts increasingly important in helping people cope with new pressures, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said this was among the reasons psychology was included as one of the 64 fields of study supported under Sarawak’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).

“People may ask why psychology is being emphasised. This is because human life in the next 10 to 20 years will change. Their lifestyle will not be the same as today,” he said during the Sarawakku Sayang Sibu event, which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) today.

Abang Johari said changing lifestyles could expose future generations to greater mental and physical stress, creating a need for experts who understand human behaviour and brain functions.

“This requires experts who can study neurology and how our brain functions, and help our children,” he said.

He said increasing work demands and limited time could create additional pressure in people’s lives.

“Sometimes people give up when stress becomes too overwhelming. Even after a heartbreak, some people can feel unable to cope. This is the kind of lifestyle stress we are talking about,” he said.

Abang Johari added that the State’s FTES had received positive feedback from students who visited the Yayasan Sarawak and higher education institution counters during the Sarawakku Sayang programme.

The initiative currently covers 64 fields of study, including technology-related disciplines such as aerospace, semiconductor-related programmes and engineering. — DayakDaily