Sometimes it is difficult for Sarawakian students studying outside the state to return home during festive seasons because of the expensive costs of air tickets.
Having studied outside the state himself, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg understands this problem very well.
The state government under his leadership began to give out return flight subsidy valued at RM300 per person to these students during last year’s Chinese New Year celebration.
This initiative began after a university requested the state government’s assistance for the subsidy during the annual town hall session ‘Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2018’ in Kuala Lumpur.
During last year’s ‘Lan Berambeh’ at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Abang Johari explained that the state government was able to provide the subsidy because of Sarawak’s stable economy.
“We want to share. If we practise good values, I believe God will help us and in return, there will be more blessings,” he said.
University students studying in Malaya, Sabah and Labuan are able to benefit from the subsidy.
Students of mixed marriages can enjoy the subsidy twice a year to enable them to celebrate two separate festivals of both parents.