Sarawak Budget 2027 a meaningful investment in future generation, says academician

KUCHING: The Sarawak Budget 2027 has been described as a comprehensive and forward-looking budget that places strong emphasis on education, with initiatives aimed at easing the financial burden on families while preparing young Sarawakians for future employment opportunities.

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) Publisher director and senior lecturer Malia Taibi said the education-related allocations reflected the state government’s commitment to developing human capital, covering various stages of education from early childhood to tertiary education.

She particularly welcomed initiatives such as free school uniforms, school bus services, laptops, book vouchers and financial assistance, which she believed would make education more accessible, especially for rural and lower-income families.

“What I like is that they cover almost every stage of education, from early childhood right up to university, and even preparing graduates for employment.

“For families who are struggling financially, these benefits can make a big difference,” she said when contacted by Sarawak Tribune.

Malia also welcomed the RM200 million allocation for the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), which is expected to benefit up to 10,600 students next year.

Describing it as one of the budget’s most meaningful initiatives, she said the scheme could encourage more young Sarawakians to pursue higher education without having to worry about tuition fees.

She also cited the various financial support to help students including for food, transport and other living expenses.

“For me, it’s not just about giving more students the chance to enter university. It’s about helping them complete their studies and build a better future,” she said.

On efforts to narrow the education gap, Malia said the RM140 million allocation for Sarawak International Secondary Schools, RM30.5 million for the Free Laptop Programme and RM10 million for the Free School Bus Programme were positive steps towards improving accessibility.

She hoped these initiatives would be complemented by continued improvements in internet connectivity, school facilities and learning resources, particularly in rural areas.

“At the end of the day, every child in Sarawak deserves the same opportunity to receive a good education, regardless of where they live,” she stressed.

Meanwhile, Malia said the budget’s emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), STEM education and graduate employability was timely, particularly as Sarawak continued developing its digital economy, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

She said closer collaboration between universities, TVET institutions and industry players would be crucial in ensuring graduates possessed the skills required by employers.

“Success is not simply about producing more graduates. It’s about producing graduates who are capable, adaptable and ready for the workplace,” she said.

Moving forward, Malia hoped greater attention would also be given to teacher development and monitoring the effectiveness of education initiatives.

She said the success of the allocations should ultimately be reflected in improved school attendance, academic performance, access to higher education and graduate employment.

“The public should know not only how much has been spent, but what has actually been achieved,” she added.