A total of 647 schools in Sarawak will close for five days from Sept 7 to 11 as haze conditions worsen, with lessons moving online. The temporary closure covers 563 primary schools with 108,477 pupils and 84 secondary schools with 90,082 students. The affected education districts include Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Kanowit, Julau and Meradong. Home-based teaching and learning will continue during the closure. Schools have been told to follow education and health procedures, monitor local API readings through APIMS and observe guidance on outdoor activities. For families in Kuching and nearby districts, Monday’s arrangement is now clear for the listed schools: children should remain at home and follow instructions from their schools for online lessons. Any later change will come through the Sarawak Education Department.

The engineering question raised in Kuching reaches beyond one gadget: how can exams stay credible when AI can generate or display answers? For Sarawak's universities, schools and engineering students, that is the practical issue behind Thursday's fireside chat. Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg said future engineers may need to develop technology capable of spotting AI-generated answers. He was referring to a report he had read about AI-enabled glasses that could provide answers, not to a proven incident in a Sarawak exam. The exchange took place during the 34th FEIAP General Assembly and World Engineering Congress at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. Hosted by the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia, the regional gathering runs from Sept 2 to 4. The session announced no new Sarawak examination rule, detector purchase, trial, budget or implementation date; any classroom or examination change would require a separate decision from the relevant education authorities.

Kenyalangsat-1 is still a research proposal: UiTM Sarawak has not announced a budget, mission, technical design or launch date. The nano-satellite was one item in a wider research package the Sarawak branch presented to the state government this week. The same package covers rare-earth and thorium recovery from Sarawak monazite, nipah-palm carbon credits, nano-based drinking-water filtration, rice farming in Mukah and microalgae biofuel. UiTM does have prior nano-satellite experience. Its official records describe UiTMSAT-1 and the later UiTMSAT-2 programme led by the university’s electrical engineering faculty. The latest announcement, however, does not say whether Kenyalangsat-1 will use that team, technology or existing partners. UiTM Sarawak has campuses in Samarahan and Mukah, but the announcement did not describe student roles or work assigned to either campus. Kenyalangsat-1 therefore remains an idea presented for consideration, not a satellite already under development.

UNIMAS students should not assume the September semester will be fully online: only eligible programmes will move progressively into flexible hybrid teaching. Lectures and other suitable activities may be held through interactive online platforms, while laboratories, practical work, workshops, field activities and collaborative projects will remain on campus when a programme requires them. The arrangement covers eligible undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The university said each faculty and centre will issue its own teaching format, attendance rules, timetable and programme guidance before the semester starts. The online and campus mix will therefore differ by course rather than follow one university-wide schedule. Students commuting from Kuching or Samarahan, or making accommodation plans, should use the timetable from their own faculty before changing arrangements. No programme-by-programme schedule had been published in the announcement.

Schools in 10 Sarawak education districts will reopen as usual on Aug 24 after API readings improved. The Sarawak State Education Department said the districts are Kuching, Padawan, Bau, Lundu, Samarahan, Simunjan, Serian, Sri Aman, Lubok Antu and Betong. The decision was based on readings recorded at 10am on Aug 23 through the Department of Environment’s APIMS system. Schools were reminded to keep monitoring local conditions. Outdoor student activities must be suspended when the API reading goes above 100. Schools in affected areas must close immediately if the reading exceeds 200, while teachers and staff do not need to report if it goes above 500. The reopening remains subject to readings staying below 200. Temporary closures can still be ordered based on recommendations from the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee. Students are advised to wear masks, drink enough water and avoid prolonged exposure to hot or hazy conditions. Schools can check the official APIMS portal and the Natural Resources and Environment Board Sarawak for updates. Because these readings are tied to 2026-08-23, parents should check the latest APIMS update and their school's notice before making plans for attendance or outdoor activities. A reopening is not a permanent all-clear if the API rises again. [image: 1787458078641-sarawak-schools-reopen-haze.jpg]

Sarawak plans to expand KEMAS autism early-education provision from one class now to 24 classes across the state in 2027. The classes will operate under the Tabika Tunas Istimewa programme, aimed particularly at families in rural communities where suitable early support can be difficult or expensive to reach. Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang said the nationwide programme is expected to have 132 classes next year. Private autism classes can cost about RM700 to RM1,000 per child. Bringing classes closer to rural families could reduce both fees and travel barriers, but the headline number is only the first step. The announcement did not list the 24 locations, opening dates, intake age, class size or application method. Parents should wait for KEMAS to publish those details rather than assume every district will receive a class immediately. The programme is early education, not a replacement for clinical assessment, therapy or individual medical advice. Its value will depend on trained educators, suitable learning environments, manageable class sizes and clear referral links for children who need additional support. For now, families can monitor KEMAS announcements and contact their nearest KEMAS office to register interest. Publishing the locations early would also help rural parents plan transport and assessment arrangements. The 24-class figure is a 2027 target, not a list of confirmed locations or an immediate intake notice. Parents should wait for KEMAS to publish the districts, age range and application details; early education also does not replace clinical assessment or therapy.

Sarawak mission schools will get RM30 million in Unifor funding this year. Mission schools in Sarawak will continue receiving support from the state’s Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), with RM30 million allocated this year. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the funding is shifting beyond basic infrastructure such as desks and dining halls. It will also support software, soft skills, motivation classes, and help students improve in Science and Mathematics. The aim is to help more students, especially those from rural mission schools, meet entry requirements for Sarawak-owned universities and benefit from the state’s free tertiary education scheme. Unifor handed out RM34.87 million for 148 projects in its first disbursement this year. The remaining RM55.12 million is expected to be distributed by October. The allocation is a programme commitment; each school's work, timing and eligibility still depend on the official implementation details. Families should follow their school or the responsible department for the next confirmed announcement. [image: 1787134209476-mission-schools.jpg]

Sarawak plans to begin developing a CubeSat laboratory in 2027, with a state nano-satellite targeted for space by 2030. [image: 1786788255616-sarawak-cubesat-20260815.jpg] Photo: Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) via DayakDaily Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the plan after meeting aerospace experts. He said a satellite could support the collection of Earth and resource data, while the programme would create demand for engineers with space-technology and basic astronomy knowledge. What is confirmed — and what is not CubeSats are small satellites built around standardised units, making them useful for education, technology testing and focused observation missions. A local laboratory could therefore be valuable even before a launch by training engineers and letting teams design, assemble and test hardware. The 2030 launch remains a target, not a confirmed mission date. The announcement did not name a launch provider, final satellite specification, budget or exact laboratory site. Those are the details that will show whether the idea has moved from roadmap to funded engineering work. For Sarawak, the strongest case will be practical use: flood and land monitoring, agriculture, mapping or environmental data that local agencies can actually use. The next milestones to watch are the 2027 lab start, technical partners and a published mission plan. Announced in: Kota Samarahan ️ Timeline: Laboratory development targeted for 2027; satellite target 2030 Sources: DayakDaily report · NASA explainer on SmallSats and CubeSats

Kuching Vocational College celebrated 181 SVM graduates in August, while reporting that 90.79 per cent of its diploma students had found work related to their field. [image: 1786669594232-20260814-kuching-vocational.jpg] Photo: The Borneo Post Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii told the graduation ceremony that Sarawak's expansion in energy, infrastructure, technology, automation and digital industries will require more technicians and practically trained workers. He argued that vocational education should not be treated as a second-class route. College director Michael Akien said all 181 students who completed the 2026 Sijil Vokasional Malaysia were eligible to continue to the Diploma Vokasional Malaysia level. What the employment figure does — and does not — show The 90.79 per cent figure referred to the college's diploma students securing field-related employment. It was not described as the employment rate of the 181 new SVM graduates, who had only just completed that level and could continue their studies. That distinction is useful for students comparing pathways. SVM can lead into DVM, while diploma outcomes give a separate indication of how closely training matches jobs. Before applying, students should compare the actual course, workshop exposure, industry placement, certification and entry requirements rather than relying on one overall percentage. The report highlighted demand in mechanics, electrical work, construction, automation, technology and hospitality. Students should still check current course availability directly with the college or the national TVET portal because programmes and intake conditions can change. 2026 SVM graduates: 181 Reported field-related employment: 90.79% among diploma students Sources: The Borneo Post · Malaysia TVET portal

[image: 1786442816734-airborneo-resized.jpg] AirBorneo Airways has joined the government-backed FLYsiswa air travel subsidy initiative, helping ease the cost of domestic flights for eligible Malaysian students. The state-owned airline announced today that it will participate in the programme spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport (MOT), supporting higher education students travelling between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan. What students get: RM400 digital voucher for domestic economy flights Enhanced baggage allowance Complimentary or discounted date-change options Eligibility: Malaysian students enrolled in public higher education institutions (IPTA) How to redeem: Check eligibility at subsidiudara.mot.gov.my Book via AirBorneo website or mobile app Redemption period: Aug 11 to Nov 30, 2026 Travel period: up to Dec 31, 2026 AirBorneo CEO Megat Ardian Aminuddin said the cost of air travel should not be an obstacle for students studying away from their families. "For many young Malaysians studying away from home, particularly between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, the cost of flight tickets should never be an obstacle to spending quality time with family," he said. Source: The Borneo Post Sarawak students, time to check your eligibility!

A 14-year-old Sarawak deaf table tennis gold medallist may miss her next step because her cochlear implant processor keeps failing. [image: 1785729955161-celynn_20260803.jpg] Source: The Borneo Post Celynn Ho won the women's singles gold medal at the first Malaysian Deaf Table Tennis Championship in Ipoh last month. She is now due to represent Malaysia at the Asia Pacific Deaf Multi-Sport Championships 2026 in Penang from Oct 3 to 10. Her mother Rita Bong said the biggest problem now is the cost of replacing Celynn's faulty cochlear implant processor. A new one could cost around RM90,000. Bong said the device matters not only for school, but also for training, because Celynn relies on it to communicate with coaches and teammates. Key Details Location: Kuching / Padawan Details: Celynn is a Form 2 student at Chung Hua Middle School No. 1. Those who want to know more can contact Bong at 012-8886366, as listed by The Borneo Post. Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

Sarawak may get a new International Islamic University Malaysia presence if the proposal moves ahead. [image: 1785719057269-iium_sarawak_20260802.jpg] Source: Sarawak Tribune Sarawak has welcomed a proposal for the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) to set up an academic presence in the state. Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Sarawak should stay open to public and private universities that can help strengthen human capital. He said any institution that can improve skills, knowledge and access to quality education should be viewed positively. IIUM Rector Professor Emeritus Datuk Osman Bakar said the university has been approached by Sarawak alumni about the idea. He said IIUM is looking at options such as specialised academic programmes before moving into a full campus. Why it matters More higher education options in Sarawak could mean more pathways for local students without having to leave the state. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: IIUM is exploring an academic presence in Sarawak, with specialised programmes among the possible first steps. Source: Sarawak Tribune What do you think?

The Sarawak Teachers Union wants the Ministry of Education to act faster on teacher burnout, mental health and workplace pressure. [image: 1785665179930-stu_president_20260802.png] Source: DayakDaily KUCHING, Aug 2: The Sarawak Teachers Union (STU) has called for a thorough investigation into two teacher death cases linked to school compounds, while urging the Ministry of Education to take teachers' wellbeing more seriously. STU president Kullin Djayang said the union wants the facts established first and asked the public not to speculate while investigations are still ongoing. Workload and pressure in focus Kullin said prolonged stress can lead to emotional burnout, anxiety and lower motivation among teachers. He also called for education policies to be reviewed, especially those linked to heavy school-related tasks and high key performance indicator expectations. Schools must be safe workplaces too STU said classrooms, hostels and teachers' quarters should be safe and conducive for both teachers and students. The union also conveyed condolences to the families involved and reminded educators to prioritise their own health while serving in schools. Location: Sarawak / Kuching Details: STU is asking MOE to review teacher workload, mental health support and school working conditions. Source: DayakDaily Teachers and parents, do you think school workload has become too heavy?

Sarawak will pilot Malaysia’s first school integrity club programme, starting with students. [image: 1785492331757-school-integrity-club.jpg] Image source: DayakDaily / TVS Sarawak has been picked as the first state to introduce Kelab Rakan Integriti Sekolah, a school club programme focused on integrity values. Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya said the programme will be carried out with the Ministry of Education. He said the club is believed to be the first of its kind in the country and will begin in Sarawak. The aim is simple: build the habit of honesty and accountability earlier, not only after students enter the workplace. The launch is expected to be part of Sarawak Integrity Day 2026 on Aug 12, alongside PINTAR 2026 and other integrity-related programmes. Location: Sarawak Details: First school integrity club pilot in Malaysia Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak Science Centre is being positioned as a hands-on STEM hub for students and teachers across the state. [image: 1785373547375-science_centre_20260730.jpg] The Sarawak Science Centre (SSCiEX) in Kuching is meant to support classroom learning with interactive tools, teacher resources and practical science exposure beyond textbooks. Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the centre will connect young Sarawakians with areas like robotics, coding, biotechnology and renewable energy. Why it matters For students, this is not just another building. It gives schools a place to bring science lessons closer to real life. The centre is also part of Sarawak's PCDS 2030 push to grow local STEM talent and support an innovation-driven economy. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: Sarawak Science Centre to support teachers, students and public STEM learning Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Schools have been reminded not to hide bullying or abuse cases just to protect their image. [image: 1785211512313-school_bullying_20260728.jpg] Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said bullying and violence must be dealt with early, whether the case looks big or small at first. He said principals and headmasters should be open when handling bullying cases. Reporting a case does not mean the whole school has failed. It means the school is taking the problem seriously. Parents send their children to school expecting a safe place to study. That safety has to come first. Why it matters Bullying cases can grow worse when schools keep quiet. Anwar said early action is needed before small problems become bigger injustices. Location: Malaysia Details: Reminder issued during a meeting with Ministry of Education staff in Putrajaya on July 28, 2026. Photo: Bernama via The Borneo Post Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

Sarawak Teachers' Union says the school meal programme should cover secondary students too, especially those from low-income families. [image: 1784952263224-stu-rmt-secondary.jpg] The Sarawak Teachers' Union (STU) has urged the government to extend the Rancangan Makanan Tambahan (RMT) from primary schools to secondary schools. Deputy president Yong Sie Hing said some secondary students still come to school without breakfast because of family financial hardship. He said this affects their health, focus, motivation and academic performance. STU said student welfare in rural and interior areas needs closer attention, including poverty, learning facilities, transport, internet access, teacher quarters, utilities and teaching resources. The union said it is ready to help gather verified data for the government, and will also look at cooperation with companies, NGOs and welfare groups to support students who need help. Location: Sibu / Sarawak schools Details: STU wants RMT expanded to secondary schools, with focus on low-income and rural students Photo: Utusan Borneo Source: https://www.utusanborneo.com.my/2026/07/25/stu-gesa-pelaksanaan-rmt-ke-peringkat-sekolah-menengah What do you think?

Mandarin is being framed as a practical trade skill for Sarawak, especially when dealing with China. [image: 1784433843339-premier-mandarin-resized.jpg] Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Mandarin can give Sarawakians an edge in an export-oriented economy. Speaking in Kuching on Saturday night, he said Sarawak sells products such as oil palm and LNG to China, so language skills matter when dealing with pricing, delivery and negotiation. He also said Bahasa Malaysia remains the national language, while English and Mandarin are useful tools for business and international trade. The Premier also pointed to Sarawak's recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) and the state's yearly RM10 million allocation for Chinese schools. Location: Kuching Details: Mandarin, English and trade skills were highlighted as part of Sarawak's push to prepare local talent for a wider export market. Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

Sarawak's OSEIC says 518 children have moved on to formal education since 2022. [image: 1784423039969-oseic-children-education.jpg] Source: The Borneo Post DALAT (July 19): Sarawak's One Stop Early Intervention Centre has helped more than 500 children with developmental delays continue into formal education. State Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said 518 children had completed OSEIC intervention programmes since 2022. Where the children went Of the 518 children, 145 entered mainstream schools, 303 joined the Special Education Integration Programme, while 70 continued at Special Education National Schools. OSEIC began in Kuching in 2020 and expanded to Dalat in 2023. As of June 30, it had provided intervention services to 3,051 children, with 648 still in programmes. More centres coming Fatimah said Miri is expected to become the third OSEIC location in 2027, giving more families access to early intervention closer to home. Location: Dalat / Sarawak Details: 518 children completed intervention and continued into formal education Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?

[image: 1784174794492-kh-spm-workshop.jpeg] About 600 Batu Kawa students joined a free SPM readiness workshop as Sarawak keeps pushing education support for young people. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said Sarawak’s future depends heavily on quality education and talent development. He said the state government now provides several forms of education help, including the Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme, scholarships, free laptops and living allowances. Who joined The two-day SPM 2026 Free Readiness Workshop was held at Ang Cheng Ho Quarry Multi-purpose Hall in Batu Kawa. Most of the 600 participants came from three nearby secondary schools: SM Min Lit Batu Kawa SMK Batu Kawa SMK Jalan Arang The workshop covered study techniques and exam strategies, with experienced teachers guiding students on key parts of SPM preparation. Why it matters Dr Sim, who is also Batu Kawah assemblyman, said SPM remains one of the country’s most important academic qualifications because it shapes future options in higher education and work. He encouraged candidates to stay focused and aim for strong results, noting that Sarawakian students have continued to perform well in SPM over the years. Location: Batu Kawa, Kuching Details: Around 600 students joined the SPM 2026 readiness workshop, while Sarawak highlighted education aid such as free tertiary education, scholarships, laptops and living allowances. Source: The Borneo Post SPM season is never easy. Good support like this really helps. What do you think?