KUCHING: Some 110 Sarawakian students have received sponsorships totalling RM28mil from PETRONAS for their tertiary studies.
The outstanding 2024 SPM school leavers from diverse backgrounds will pursue degrees in engineering, economics, law and other industry-related courses at local and overseas universities under the PETRONAS Powering Knowledge education sponsorship.
State Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah welcomed the national oil corporation's continuous commitment to developing Sarawakian talent.
"By investing in the education and development of Sarawakian youth, PETRONAS is helping us lay the foundation for a future that is resilient, competitive and inclusive," she said at the sponsorship presentation ceremony here on Tuesday (July 29).
Fatimah, who was representing Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, said this aligned with the state government's post-Covid-19 development strategy, which aimed to position Sarawak as a high-income developed state by 2030.
"At the heart of this vision is our focus on building talent and expanding opportunities across all levels of education, from early childhood to tertiary, from academic pathways to technical and vocational training.
"We are determined to ensure that every Sarawakian has the opportunity to thrive and move forward," she said.
Fatimah also said the education sponsorship was a platform to shape future professionals and leaders who would contribute to Sarawak's and Malaysia's progress.
"What we hope to see in return is not only graduates with academic excellence, but individuals who come back with a sense of responsibility and purpose," she added.
PETRONAS senior general manager (human capital expertise) Akmal Niza Ahmad said the Powering Knowledge initiative supported a wide range of programmes to empower Malaysians from all walks of life.
"This is part of our commitment, reinforcing how we continue to invest in future talent for the organisation, the industry and the nation," she said.
Since its inception in 1975, the PETRONAS education sponsorship has benefitted over 40,000 Malaysian students.
