2027 State Budget highlights: RM1 million for DLP, RM6 million for UP-DLPS, RM200 million for FTES, subsidy for PTPTN student loan repayment, RM50 million for students' pocket money scheme

1. The state government to continue strengthening English proficiency and enhance students’ competencies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to support the Dual Language Programme (DLP) across schools in Sarawak. For 2027, RM1 million is earmarked for continued implementation of DLP. 

2. A sum of RM6 million is allocated for the continued implementation of the Ujian Penilaian Dual Language Programme Sarawak (UP-DLPS) for Year 6 covering English, Science and Mathematics. This statewide assessment provides a standardised benchmark of pupils' proficiency and understanding, particularly in Science and Mathematics taught in English, with the assessment instruments reviewed and validated by Cambridge University Press and Assessment. 

3. An allocation of RM200 million is earmarked to implement Free Tertiary Education Scheme, which is expected to benefit up to 10,600 students.

4. The state government to continue to subsidize PTPTN student loan repayment for Sarawakian borrowers who have demonstrated responsible financial discipline by repaying more than 30 percent of their total study loan amount. In 2027,
RM10 million is set aside to sustain this meaningful financial assistance programme.

5. The state government will continue providing Special Pocket Money assistance to Sarawakian students enrolled in Diploma and Degree programmes at recognised institutions of higher learning across Malaysia. For this purpose, an allocation of RM50 million is provided next year to help cover essential living expenses such as food and daily necessities.

6. A sum of RM38 million under Alternative Funding has been earmarked for setting up Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School campuses in Bintulu and Miri,
complementing the existing campuses in Kuching and Sibu