SIBU: A mother's dream of seeing her eldest child pursue a university education has finally come true, thanks to the Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) which has enabled him to further his studies without having to take out an education loan.

For Agnes Ting Mei Ing, the opportunity given to her son, Eminem Tiong Kung, 20, has not only eased the family's financial burden but also brought much-needed relief after years of worrying about how to afford his university education.

Agnes shared that like any parent, she wants her children to receive the best possible education and build a brighter future, although financial constraints had been a major concern for her family.

“Thank you to the Sarawak Government for giving our children hope for a brighter future, and for alleviating the financial burden that parents like us would otherwise have to worry about,” she said when met by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).

Eminem is now pursuing a Bachelor of Technology Management (Honours) at the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), after his application under FTES was approved following the completion of his Form Six studies.

The eldest of two siblings said the opportunity has allowed him to continue his education without relying on a loan from the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), thus easing the financial pressure on his parents.

Behind his journey to university lies a story of sacrifice, with both his parents having given up their respective careers in accounting and engineering to run a kampua stall at a restaurant for the past three years.

Aware of how hard his parents work to make ends meet, Eminem also helps out with the family business in his spare time as a way of showing appreciation for their sacrifices.

“My parents have always worked hard to support our family. Previously, they were very worried about whether they could afford my education and had even suggested that I apply for a PTPTN loan," he said.

According to Eminem, the education assistance provided by the Sarawak Government through Yayasan Sarawak has not only enabled him to focus on his studies but has also brought peace of mind to his family.

Determined to repay his parents' sacrifices, he hopes to excel academically, build a successful career and improve his family's living standards in the future.

"I will make the most of this opportunity to build a better future, become a good provider for my family and a leader," he said.

For this family, FTES represents more than just financial aid for education, it serves as a bridge connecting the sacrifices made by the parents and their children's dreams of transforming their family's future through higher education. -UKASnews