Sarawak to Offer Free University Education for Sarawakians Starting 2026
Starting in 2026, Sarawakians will have the opportunity to pursue higher education without the burden of tuition fees. The Sarawak government has officially approved the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), making it the first initiative of its kind in Malaysia to provide completely free undergraduate studies for its people in state-owned universities.
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What’s the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES)?
Under this scheme, all eligible Sarawakians can study full-time in selected state-owned institutions without paying any tuition fees. The participating institutions include:
• Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak
• Curtin University Malaysia (Miri campus)
• University Technology Sarawak (UTS)
• i-CATS University College
The initiative is focused on preparing Sarawakians for high-demand fields aligned with the state’s development goals. The scheme covers approximately 64 programs in areas such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), law, accounting, finance, and medical sciences.
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Extra Support for Low-Income Students
In addition to tuition-free education, the Sarawak government will also provide financial aid to students from low-income families. Those whose household per capita income is RM1,500 or below will receive a living stipend of RM15,000 annually, equivalent to RM1,250 per month. This ensures that students can focus on their studies without worrying about living expenses.
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Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must:
• Be a Sarawakian (possess “K” status on MyKad or other verified documentation)
• Enroll in one of the participating universities listed above
• Take up a full-time undergraduate program
• Meet the academic requirements set by the respective university
Importantly, there is no age limit. Even adults or retirees who wish to return to full-time study will be eligible under this scheme.
Another remarkable feature: there is no service bond. Graduates are not required to work for the state government or any specific employer upon graduation. They are free to seek employment anywhere in Malaysia or abroad.
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When Does It Start?
The scheme will begin in 2026, following a formal announcement and approval by the Sarawak Cabinet in March 2025. The program is expected to benefit at least 25,000 students annually and may expand in the future based on capacity and demand.
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Not Included for Now
At this stage, the scheme only applies to state-owned universities located in Sarawak. Federal universities such as Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) or institutions located outside of the state are not included yet. However, officials have hinted that the scheme may expand in phases.
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A Landmark Move for Education in Malaysia
This ambitious plan reflects Sarawak’s long-term vision to develop a skilled, knowledgeable, and resilient workforce. It is also a powerful step toward education equality, particularly for students from remote areas and low-income backgrounds who previously saw university as an unreachable dream.
By removing both tuition costs and financial barriers, the FTES is set to transform the educational landscape in Sarawak and serve as a model for other Malaysian states.
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Final Thoughts
The Free Tertiary Education Scheme is more than a financial aid program — it’s a bold investment in Sarawak’s future. Whether you’re a fresh school-leaver or an adult considering a return to education, this initiative offers a rare opportunity to obtain a quality degree with zero tuition fees, and in some cases, additional monthly support.
For Sarawakians, university will soon be not just a dream, but a right — free, accessible, and fully supported by the state.
