Preparatory works for Sarawak’s first Islamic international school to start this year

Abang Johari (third right) receives a souvenir from Sarawak Islamic Council president Datuk Misnu Taha while other distinguished guests look on during a thanksgiving event on Jan 16, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS)

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Jan 17: Sarawak will establish an Islamic international school under Yayasan Sarawak, with preparatory works beginning this year.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he has approved an initial RM3 million allocation for preparatory phase of the school.

“The school will use the Cambridge syllabus, similar to other Yayasan Sarawak schools, combined with Islamic studies,” he said when speaking at a thanksgiving event held at the Sarawak Islamic Complex here last night (Jan 16). An audio recording of his speech was shared to DayakDaily.

He added that the international school will also have residential facilities, allowing parents to send their children as boarders.

“The children will learn discipline in their studies and prayer times, which will help shape a disciplined life,” he said.

A previous report dated Dec 9, 2020 had speculated that Maahad Tahfiz Tun Abdul Rahman Ya’kub Primary School (Mattary) in Petra Jaya would be transformed into the new Islamic international school.

Meanwhile, on Oct 7, 2022, Abang Johari revealed that the Sarawak government was conducting an extensive study with Singapore’s Madrasah Aljunied Al-Islamiah to develop a Cambridge international syllabus for the school.

On Sept 7, 2024, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi reportedly stated that the school is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. — DayakDaily