Pemegang UEC tak disyarat kuasai BM belajar percuma di Sarawak

The government of Sarawak has introduced the Full-Tuition Education Scheme (FTES) for holders of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), without mandating proficiency in the Malay language. Dr. Annuar Rapaee, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, clarified that eligibility for FTES is based on meeting academic entry requirements and specific programs at four participating institutions - Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS), Curtin University Malaysia, and the i-CATS University College.

To be eligible for FTES, UEC holders must secure at least five Grade B's, and additional prerequisite courses such as Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, and Physics. Some institutions also impose their own English language requirements. UEC holders who are accepted can attend any of the 64 FTES courses without applying separately for the scheme.

As of June 30, 192 UEC students have received full scholarship funding through FTES, distributed among Swinburne Sarawak (137 students), UTS (33 students), Curtin Malaysia (21 students), and i-CATS University College (1 student). Dr. Annuar emphasized that UEC students will receive the same support as other students in terms of industry training, provided they successfully secure employment in related industries.

The inclusion of UEC holders in FTES reflects Sarawak's commitment to ensure eligible Sarawakian students have a fair chance to continue higher education and develop their potential, skills, and talents. The scheme adheres to the principle of education for all, regardless of ethnicity or background, and aims to lift communities out of poverty, particularly those in non-urban areas.