MIRI (July 11): Sarawakians graduating with Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) from Chinese middle schools can look forward to free tertiary education in state-owned higher learning institutions by 2026.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said now they may face difficulties entering matriculation, but as Sarawak had recognised UEC since 2014, the state government wants to give free tertiary education to all eligible Sarawakians in state-owned higher learning institutions.

“This means that, once they complete secondary school with UEC, they can apply into Sarawak universities.

“The parents do not have to worry about the cost because it will be free, the government will be the one paying for it,” he said.

He was speaking when officiating at SM Pei Min new building block here today.

Abang Johari said this is one of the ways the Sarawak government shares its revenue with the people.

“My job and the job of my cabinet team is to find the money for Sarawak. So far so good. When our revenue goes up, we share with the rakyat.

“We share through education. When our people are educated, they will have no problem finding ways to earn a living,” he said.

He said Sarawakians are lucky because there is no problem in implementing educational policies for the people.

“Other places got problems with vernacular schools, very sensitive issues… but Sarawak no problem, no issue. When schools need assistance, we give assistance,” he said.

Touching on SM Pei Min new building block, Abang Johari said it reflects unity among all races and those in need of government assistance.

“I was informed by the school chairman that they are also in need of a track field here and the building also has some short fall. So, I spoke to chairman Hii, we can do one to one.

“They need RM5 million. So, I will give RM2.5 million and with help from the alumni, he gives RM2.5 million,” he said, adding that the RM2.5 million will be on top of the RM10 million allocated to Chinese aided schools annually.

He stressed that when it comes to education, the state government’s policy is inclusive.

“Our policy, we don’t give emphasis on race. Education has no race. If we want to be smart, we must study, because now we are entering the new economic policy.

“In this new economy, you have to equip yourself with modern knowledge on the new economy,” he said.

Also present at the function were Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian; Women, Childhood and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk Rosey Yunus; Miri Mayor and Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii; Lambir assemblyman Datuk Ripin Lamat; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohd Abu Bakar Marzuki; Sarawak United Association of Chinese School Boards of Management (Sha Dong Zong) chairman Temenggong Dato Vincent Lau Lee Ming, Pei Min Middle School Honorary Life Chairman Dato Hii King Chiong and SM Pei Min board of directors chairman Khor Ooi Long.