Free tertiary education begins in Sarawak in 2026, bringing the right to education closer to many families. Swinburne Sarawak , through this initiative, provides quality degree programs and as a result, align with the state’s development goals.
Every year on December 10, the world observes Human Rights Day and reflects on the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. At the same time, Article 26 of the Declaration – stipulating that everyone has a right to education – feels especially meaningful in Sarawak because the state is preparing for the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) starting in 2026.
The Right to Education: A Foundation for Progress
The right to education is more than just building schools or preparing learning materials. In other words, this right gives you a path to new skills and a chance to build your future with confidence. Education supports social mobility, strengthens communities, and, in many cases, reduces long-term inequality.
For years, many young Sarawakians had the ambition to study but many also lacked the financial support to move forward.
For this reason, Sarawak introduced the Free Tertiary Education Scheme 2026 (FTES2026), giving every Anak Sarawak a fair shot at a university degree, no matter their family income.
Sarawak’s Vision of Free Tertiary Education
The free tertiary education initiative will start in January 2026. After that, higher education across Sarawak will shift towards wider access. It aims to reshape opportunties and make the right to education a real option for more Anak Sarawak.
The initiative runs through state-owned institutions, including Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Swinburne Sarawak). Through this approach, Swinburne Sarawak will help ensure eligible Sarawakians get access to quality Australian education, at home.
FTES2026 covers undergraduate degree programs across strategic fields. For example, selected STEM subjects, law, accounting and finance. These programs align with Sarawak’s development goals and future economic needs.
The initiative shows a strong commitment to inclusivity. In addition, it upholds equal opportunity for all Anak Sarawak.
Swinburne Sarawak and Free Tertiary Education Scheme 2026
Programs Available at Swinburne Sarawak
Under FTES2026, Swinburne Sarawak offers selected STEM and professional degree programs such as Accounting, and Finance. Meanwhile, students can expect to receive full academic support throughout their studies.
World-Class Education, Locally Delivered
Swinburne students will receive the same quality Australian education offered by Swinburne Australia is renowned for worldwide. As a university ranked in the top one percent globally by QS World University Rankings, Swinburne Sarawak delivers educational excellence that prepares students for tomorrow’s challenges.
Swinburne University’s Sarawak campus offers upgraded facilities, modern learning spaces. Moreover, its teaching supports Industry Revolution 4.0 needs.
Students also get access to exchange opportunities in Melbourne through our exchange programs, and they benefit from our status as Malaysia’s first Adobe Creative Campus. On top of that, the recently upgraded campus supports creativity and enhancement of digital skills.
How Free Tertiary Education Builds Sarawak’s Future
The Free Tertiary Education Scheme offers more than financial support. In fact, it serves as Sarawak’s long-term investment in its talent pool. As such, it prepares the next generation of engineers, scientists, accountants, and professionals who will drive Sarawak’s growth.
This initiative aligns perfectly with Swinburne Sarawak’s commitment to accessible, global-standard education. Our strategic roadmap, now in its fifth year, was built on a vision that brings people and technology together for a better world.
This strategy will ensure that Anak Sarawak receive a globally recognized, tech-infused, and industry-aligned education through key focus areas like:
- tailored and innovative pathways to ensure success for all
- leading and leveraging tech purposefully
- co-creating industries of the future through real-world, interdisciplinary projects.
By providing wider access to Swinburne’s world-class education, we are directly supporting the state’s aspirations under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 for a thriving, data-driven, and socially inclusive economy.
Take the First Step Today
To all aspiring Anak Sarawak students dreaming of quality higher education, prepare for your future now. Register your interest with Swinburne Sarawak today, and we will keep you informed with the latest updates and announcements by the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development.
Alternatively, stay connected through our social media platforms and website to ensure you don’t miss important announcements about eligibility criteria, application processes, and program details.
As we look toward 2026 and beyond, financial barriers will be reduced for eligible Sarawakians pursuing degree studies. This Human Rights Day, we stand committed to a future where every Anak Sarawak with passion and dedication has access to quality higher education. With this shift, more students will move forward with confidence.
Together, we are making education a right, not a privilege.
Shape your future with Swinburne Sarawak. Register your interest today. Visit our FTES2026 webpage or contact our Future Students Team for more information. Follow us on our social media platforms for the latest updates on FTES2026.