KUCHING: Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak Campus (Swinburne Sarawak) continues to play a pivotal role in helping Sarawak in its vision of becoming a developed state by 2030.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted the university’s contribution as it offers a diverse range of courses designed to meet industry demands, making it a critical driver of Sarawak’s industrial and economic growth.
“The university’s expertise in fields such as sustainable technologies, biotechnology, and the digital economy is well-aligned with Sarawak’s broader development goals.
“Furthermore, its collaboration with key industries and government agencies through its research centres has helped address the research needs vital to Sarawak’s progress,” he said.
Abang Johari made these remarks in a speech delivered by Education, Innovation and Talent Development Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee during Swinburne’s Sarawak Appreciation and Awards Dinner held at Waterfront Hotel here last night (Oct 2).
Abang Johari added that Swinburne Sarawak is playing a crucial role in Sarawak’s push towards industrialisation and globalisation.
He said the university’s focus on fostering innovation and data-driven development is key to achieving the state’s goal of a thriving economy and society by 2030.
The Premier further commended the university’s consistent success in producing graduates who are well-prepared to contribute to the state’s workforce.
He said these graduates, equipped with cutting-edge skills and fresh ideas, are ready to drive Sarawak’s development forward by enhancing business competitiveness and boosting human resource capacity.
“Their potential and fresh ideas will not only propel themselves forward but also drive Sarawak’s development,” he said.
Abang Johari also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to providing equitable access to quality education for all Sarawakians. He said nurturing home-grown talent is key to meeting the evolving needs of the state’s industries.
“These include merit-based scholarships for academic excellence, interest-free study loans, higher-degree research scholarships, and the Yayasan Sarawak B40 Bursary Scheme.
“The B40 Bursary Scheme enables eligible Sarawakian students from underprivileged backgrounds to access a world-class Australian education at Swinburne Sarawak, with tuition fees comparable to Malaysian public universities,” he added.
Also present were Swinburne University of Technology’s Vice-Chancellor And President Pascale Quester, Swinburne Sarawak Pro Vice-Chancellor and CEO Lau Hieng Ho and Brunei Darussalam Consul General to Sarawak Sheikh Abdul Madhani Datuk Paduka Sheikh Abdul Ghani.
