Free schooling to pay off later

SIBU: Sarawak’s upcoming policy of free tertiary education for Sarawakians, starting in 2026, is an investment in the state’s future, said Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.

The Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development said that the return on this investment won’t be monetary, but in the form of contributions from graduates who would help develop Sarawak.

“Don’t forget that all the policies and financial assistance provided by the government must be returned. But this return comes not through money, but through your contributions to this state after your studies,” said Dr. Annuar in his speech at the 2024 Kolej Laila Taib (KLT) Convocation ceremony at a hotel today (July 13).

The Nangka assemblyman specifically urged graduates who benefit from the new policy to return to Sarawak and contribute their skills.

“No one else can help us except the current young generation.

“That’s why our policy is very clear: to ensure that young people of all races and religions are not left behind and can pursue university education,” he added.

A total of 109 diploma students from seven programmes received their scrolls from Dr. Annuar, who is also the chairman of KLT.

The ceremony also saw several award presentations. Diony Sim Jun Wei, Katleen Au Wei Fang, and Chin Yi Ting received the Dean’s Award, while Lam Yeong Yuh and Mcarthur Robert received the Book Prize Award. Joyce Fong Yuen Choo was the recipient of the Laila Taib Award.

Also present were Deputy Director of Sarawak Foundation Watson Chunggat Leonard Doo and KLT chief executive officer Eric Wong.