KUCHING – A Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) Dialogue Session hosted by Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus highlighted the importance of ensuring that expanded access to higher education translates into meaningful graduate outcomes and contributions to Sarawak’s development.
Held at Swinburne Sarawak on 11 November 2026, the session brought together about 600 students and featured YB Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak. It provided a platform for students to engage directly with him on the objectives, expectations, and long-term aspirations of FTES.
Students also gained first-hand insights into the Sarawak government’s commitment to widening access to higher education for eligible Sarawakians and developing a skilled workforce to support Sarawak’s economic growth.
With an allocation of RM250 million for 2026, FTES represents a significant investment in Sarawak’s human capital development. The scheme aims to ensure that financial circumstances do not become a barrier for eligible Sarawakian students to pursue higher education.
YB Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee speaks at the event.
In his welcome address, Swinburne Sarawak Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Dato Professor Ir Lau Hieng Ho said the university was proud to be part of the FTES initiative.
“We recognise this as a substantial investment in students, their families, communities, and the wider Sarawak economy. For many families, a university education without tuition fees can make a meaningful difference,” he said.
The discussion highlighted that FTES extends beyond financial assistance for tuition fees; it is also an investment in Sarawak’s future. While the Sarawak government facilitates access to higher education, students have a responsibility to take ownership of their academic journey, remain committed to their studies, and make the most of the opportunities available to them.
Higher education institutions, in turn, play a vital role in equipping graduates with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies needed to meet industry needs.
As Sarawak continues to pursue its economic transformation agenda, the development of a skilled and future-ready workforce remains a key priority. The continued growth of sectors such as energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, and engineering further underscores the need for graduates with relevant technical expertise and the ability to adapt to evolving industry demands.
Stronger industry engagement, internships, workplace exposure, and industry-relevant learning opportunities are therefore essential in preparing graduates for successful careers.
Students at the dialogue session.
Swinburne Sarawak reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak, Yayasan Sarawak, and industry partners to ensure that its academic offerings remain relevant, industry-connected, and responsive to Sarawak’s evolving workforce needs.
“Swinburne recognises its duty to deliver quality education that meets the expectations of the Sarawak Government and the needs of a developing economy. Our role goes beyond delivering academic programmes and awarding qualifications. We must ensure our graduates have the knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market,” said Dato Lau.
The engagement reinforced a shared understanding that the success of FTES should be measured not only by the number of students gaining access to higher education but also by the quality of graduates produced and their contributions to building a skilled, prosperous, and thriving Sarawak.
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