Sarawak govt hopes to help Methodist Pilley Institute become a university, says Dr Sim

SIBU (April 6): The Sarawak government is looking to help the Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI) become a full-fledged university to support the state’s long-term goals, said Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

The Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government urged MPI to position itself for a bigger role as Sarawak advances towards securing greater autonomy in both education and healthcare.

“We do not want MPI to remain only as a university college. Let us explore how the Sarawak government can collaborate with you so that MPI can become a university,” he said at MPI’s 35th Anniversary Gala Dinner here on Sunday.

He said Sarawak’s evolving autonomy framework would unlock new opportunities for local institutions that are ready to grow.

He pointed out that institutions such as MPI are integral in nurturing not only technical skills but also values needed to build a strong Sarawakian identity.

“MPI is more than an academic institution. It creates an environment that teaches values, loyalty, responsibility, and the spirit to serve Sarawak,” he said.

He stressed that as Sarawak moves towards greater control over its education system, the state will increasingly need homegrown talent committed to serving communities locally rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

“By 2030, we will be prosperous. But prosperity without values means nothing. This is why MPI has such an important role in shaping the next generation of Sarawakians,” he said.

Dr Sim also acknowledged Sarawak’s financial capacity and its determination to build a strong, self-sufficient ecosystem in both education and healthcare.

He said the state is prepared to invest in institutions that align with its mission to strengthen local talent development.

“This is a different Sarawak now. We cannot build the future alone. We need partners like MPI who are willing to grow with us. You help us build Sarawak, and the Sarawak government will help you grow,” he said.

Among those present were Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference (SCAC) president Rev Dr Lau Hui Ming, Yayasan Methodist Pilley board of trustees chairman Raymond Kwang, and MPI board chairman Paul Wong Hee Kwong.

The MPI corporate sponsors were Platinum Sponsor: Rimbunan Hijau Group; Gold Sponsors: Jaya Tiasa Holdings Berhad, KTS Group, Mafrica Group, Ta Ann Holdings Berhad, and Sunmow Holding Berhad; Silver Sponsor: Hock Peng Organisation; and Bronze Sponsors: Bakertilly Sarawak, Crowe Malaysia, and Farley Group.