KUCHING: The proposed free tertiary education for all Sarawakians would be a first for the nation, said Kuching Chung Hua Middle School (CHMS) No.1, 3 and 4 Board of Management Committee chairman Datuk Richard Wee.
Describing it as a great initiative on the part of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, if realised, he said, it would be Abang Johari’s legacy.
“The implementation and realisation of this will once again create another first in Malaysia,” he told New Sarawak Tribune today.
He was commenting on Abang Johari’s wish to provide free tertiary education to all Sarawakians.
The Premier, who celebrated his 72nd birthday yesterday said it was this intention that prompted him to devise the establishment of the State’s own sovereign fund, to realise Sarawak’s ambition of providing free tertiary education.
At the same time, Wee said underprivileged students will be the main beneficiaries of such policy thus providing opportunity for bright students from underprivileged families.
With proper planning and effective implementation, he said it will narrow the education gap between urban and rural population.
“The impacts of the proposed scheme would depend on the details such as who would be qualified to be included as well as which universities will be participating and involved.
“However, I would expect the scheme to benefit our anak Sarawak who wish to pursue the university education without having to worry or be concerned about the financial burden,” Wee added.
