Free tertiary education to help address shortage of architects in Sarawak, says Premier

Dr Sim (third right) and other dignitaries place their palms on the panel as a symbolic gimmick to officiate Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia Sarawak Chapter's (PAMSC) 50th anniversary dinner held at Pullman Hotel, Kuching on Jan 24, 2026.

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Jan 24: Sarawak aims to address the shortage of professionals, particularly architects, through the State’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the State government will be investing heavily in modern and world-class infrastructure, including a new airport and seaport in Kuching, in line with its vision of developing Sarawak into a star economy in Asean.

“The world-class infrastructure with emphasis on sustainable features cannot be built without a corresponding pool of professionals, particularly architects like you,” he said in a speech text read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian during the Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia Sarawak Chapter’s (PAMSC) 50th anniversary dinner held at Pullman Hotel here tonight.

To resolve the shortage of local architects, he said the State government has undertaken the FTES, which removes financial barriers for students to enter the four State-owned universities.

“With FTES, I am quite confident that we can address the lack of professionals in Sarawak to support our vision of turning Sarawak into a developed economy in line with other advanced economies in the Asean region,” he added.

As a new generation of architects is being developed, Abang Johari noted that PAMSC’s role in mentorship and continuous professional development will be pivotal in integrating them into a culture of excellence.

Formed on Feb 27, 1976, PAMSC began from humble beginnings, holding committee meetings in members’ offices, before establishing joint premises with other professional institutes at Ultimate Professional Centre, Jalan Bukit Mata, followed by offices at Queens Court and its current premises in Saradise, Kuching.

Today, PAMSC has grown into one of the most active chapters nationwide, representing nearly 450 corporate, fellow, graduate and student members within a national body of more than 5,000 architects.

Also present were PAM president Ar. Adrianta Aziz and PAMSC chairwoman Ar. Noraini Narodden. — DayakDaily