KUCHING: Education is the key to Sarawak's target of becoming a developed state by 2030, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.

As such, he said the state government was striving to enhance access to education for Sarawakians through scholarships and other means.

"We want to ensure that all Sarawakians have equal access to quality education and the opportunities this brings.

"Through this, we will also be able to nurture homegrown talent to meet the needs of our state," he said at the Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus' awards and appreciation night here on Wednesday (Oct 2).

His speech was read by state Deputy Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.

Abang Johari also said universities play a crucial role in supporting Sarawak's development vision, adding that the state's goal is to have a thriving economy and society driven by data and innovation.

"Swinburne Sarawak plays an integral role in the journey. I'm pleased to note that as a university of technology, Swinburne Sarawak offers a range of courses that are relevant to industry demands which also aligns with Sarawak's current development goals," he said.

Abang Johari added that the state government together with Swinburne University in Melbourne invested over RM50mil for comprehensive campus upgrades at Swinburne Sarawak recently.

He said this is in line with Swinburne Sarawak's long-term commitment to enhancing the campus experience for students.

"The campus upgrade establishes Swinburne as a world-class teaching and learning facility in the heart of Kuching city," he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/03/education-key-to-sarawak039s-development-target-says-premier