Sarawak's education reforms: from vision to action

Free Malaysia Today

30-05-2025

While in Sarawak this week to celebrate Hari Gawai, I would like to take a moment to commend the state government for its courageous and forward-looking approach to education reform.
At a time when debates in Peninsular Malaysia continue to circle around whether or not to reform, Sarawak has charged ahead.
It has asserted its autonomy and demonstrated clear resolve through a series of landmark educational policies that signal a deep and genuine commitment to uplifting its people.
Embracing English
Perhaps the most striking move has been Sarawak's decision to diverge from national policy by reinstating English as the primary medium of instruction in all its schools.
This isn't just a linguistic shift—it's a strategic move toward global readiness.
Proficiency in English remains critical for accessing knowledge in science, technology, and international arenas.
By prioritising this, Sarawak is preparing its youth for global engagement, ensuring they are not left behind in an increasingly competitive world.
Restoring academic benchmarks
Sarawak has also reintroduced Standard 6 assessments, bucking the federal trend of abolishing them.
This decision underscores the state's focus on academic benchmarking and early interventions.
These exams provide a vital checkpoint to gauge students' preparedness for secondary education, allowing for targeted support where needed.
It's a clear statement: excellence must be measurable, and progress must be tracked.
Free tertiary education
Most transformative of all, Sarawak has instituted free education for all Sarawakians—from primary school to technical colleges and universities.
This sweeping policy removes financial barriers and opens doors for every child, regardless of background.
It's a bold reminder that education is not a privilege for the few, but a fundamental right for all.
A strong education system does far more than produce graduates. It nurtures thinkers, problem-solvers and future leaders.
It cultivates resilience, vision, and a sense of civic responsibility—elements essential for building a robust and inclusive society.
Blueprint for the future
Sarawak's approach is more than a state policy—it's a reformed blueprint for how education can be harnessed as a catalyst for comprehensive development.
Economically, a well-educated population forms the backbone of a skilled and innovative workforce.
As the world revolves toward a knowledge economy, Sarawak's investment in human capital positions it to attract high-value industries, foster entrepreneurship, and move beyond reliance on traditional sectors like timber and oil palm.
By shifting toward the digital economy, green technology, advanced manufacturing, aviation and logistics, Sarawak is staking a claim in the industries of the future.
An educated workforce brings with it adaptability, innovation and the ability to command higher wages, ultimately lifting communities out of poverty and into prosperity.
Social cohesion through education
Education is equally powerful as a social force. It breaks cycles of underemployment and marginalisation.
It fosters understanding across ethnic and cultural divides—a vital function in a diverse state like Sarawak.
Educated citizens are better equipped to engage in meaningful discourse, to advocate for social justice, and to drive inclusive progress.
In essence, education builds not just careers but character—and many a community.
Healthy democracy
Politically, an educated electorate is the bedrock of a functioning democracy.
Informed citizens can hold leaders accountable, insist on accountability, transparency, and contribute to better governance.
Sarawak's long-term vision is clear: to cultivate a generation of leaders who are capable, grounded and committed to the people they represent.
Education, in this light, becomes the great equalizer. It levels the playing field and opens doors that once seemed sealed and shut.
For Sarawak to thrive as a model of inclusive and sustainable development, education must remain central—not just as a policy priority, but as a guiding principle.
The returns on this investment—economic, social, and political—are immeasurable.
However, I do hope that progress in education does not erase or dissipate the cultural aspects, customs and heritage diversity of its populace.
To all Sarawakians, I wish you Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai—a long life, wellness, and a bountiful Gawai.
The author can be reached at: [e-mail]
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.