From school leavers to mid-career learners, FTES drives record degree enrolment at Curtin Malaysia

Miri, Sarawak – 11 February 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has recorded a significant surge in degree programme enrolment, with student progression into degree studies increasing by approximately 100 per cent, driven largely by the Sarawak Government’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES).

Since the scheme’s launch in December last year, Curtin Malaysia has seen overwhelming interest from students and parents in Sarawak seeking affordable access to quality higher education.

Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, Professor Vincent Lee, said the response to FTES has exceeded expectations, both in scale and diversity.

“In just two months, the FTES alone has resulted in a 100 per cent increase in students progressing into degree programmes. This year, we have welcomed more than 200 new degree students, with 150 benefitting directly from FTES. In total, over 500 students currently on campus are enrolled under this initiative,” he said.

Professor Lee was speaking to the media after officiating at Curtin Malaysia’s Degree Semester 1 Welcoming Day, held yesterday at The Auditorium, Curtin Malaysia.

He added that while the scheme has been particularly impactful in the Northern Region, Curtin Malaysia has also seen growing interest from other parts of Sarawak, reflecting the scheme’s statewide reach.

A total of 19 degree programmes at Curtin Malaysia are currently covered under FTES, spanning three faculties: Business; Engineering and Science; and Humanities and Health Sciences.

Programmes under the Faculty of Business include Accounting, Accounting and Audit Analytics, Accounting and Finance, Finance, Finance and Management, and Finance and Marketing.

The Faculty of Engineering and Science offers degrees in Applied Geology, Computing (Cyber Security and Software Engineering), Computer Systems and Networking, and Engineering (Honours) in Chemical, Civil and Construction, Electrical and Electronic, Energy, Environmental, Mechanical, and Mechatronic Engineering.

Under the Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, students may pursue degrees in Health, Safety and Environment, and Psychological Science.

Professor Lee emphasised that while FTES removes financial barriers, students are encouraged to make the most of Curtin Malaysia’s broader learning environment.

“Curtin Malaysia is part of a global university network. Our students are not only studying for a degree, but also gaining exposure to global citizenship. These experiences will prepare them to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s development and to the wider world.”

The scheme’s impact is perhaps best illustrated through the stories of its beneficiaries.

At 47 years old, Albert Ngaw Voon Kong from Miri is among the oldest FTES students at Curtin Malaysia. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance and Marketing, Albert balances his studies with his career as a financial planner.

“When I drove here on the first day, I almost turned back,” he admitted. “But my friends encouraged me. I also saw people in their 60s and 70s graduating recently, and that really inspired me. Age should never stop us from learning.”

For Albert, FTES made returning to university financially possible decades after finishing secondary school. “We are always learning, no matter our age,” he said.

Meanwhile, Nur Emily binti Muhamad Azli from Kuching is pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Construction Management, describing FTES as a life-changing opportunity. “The scheme really eased the financial burden on my family,” she said. “It allows me to focus on my studies at a world-class university.”

With aspirations to pursue a Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Nur Emily believes her technical foundation will enable her to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s growing urban development needs. “This degree is not just about my future; it is about giving back to the community,” she added.

The FTES underscores the Sarawak Government’s commitment to widening access to higher education and nurturing a skilled, future-ready workforce to support the state’s long-term development.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Professor Vincent Lee speaking to the media on the impact of the Free Tertiary Education Scheme at Curtin Malaysia.

Albert Ngaw Voon Kong, a Finance and Marketing student, proving it is never too late to pursue a university degree under FTES.

Nur Emily binti Muhamad Azli, an FTES beneficiary, pursuing a degree in Applied Construction Management at Curtin Malaysia.