SIBU, 5 April 2026: Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI) marked a significant milestone in its journey of growth and development during its 35th Anniversary Gala Dinner, where the Sarawak Government expressed its support for MPI’s continued advancement in higher education.
The event was honoured by the presence of Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, who highlighted the important role of local higher education institutions in supporting Sarawak’s long-term development.
In his address, Dr Sim encouraged MPI to look beyond its current status as a university college and explore opportunities for further development. He expressed the Sarawak Government’s willingness to collaborate with MPI towards its aspiration of becoming a full-fledged university.
“Let us explore how the Sarawak government can collaborate with you so that MPI can become a university.”
Dr Sim also emphasised that MPI’s contribution extends beyond academic and technical education. He highlighted the Institute’s role in cultivating values, responsibility, loyalty and a spirit of service among students, which are important in developing future generations of Sarawakians.
He further recognised the importance of developing homegrown talent to meet Sarawak’s future needs, particularly as the state continues to strengthen its autonomy in education and other key areas.
The occasion brought together representatives from the Methodist Church, MPI’s Board, Yayasan Methodist Pilley, corporate partners, sponsors, alumni and members of the MPI community to celebrate the Institute’s 35-year journey and look towards its future.
Among the distinguished guests present were Rev Dr Lau Hui Ming, President of the Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference (SCAC); Raymond Kwang, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Yayasan Methodist Pilley; and Paul Wong Hee Kwong, Chairman of the MPI Board.
The 35th Anniversary Gala Dinner served not only as a celebration of MPI’s achievements over the past 35 years but also as an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to providing quality education, developing local talent and contributing to the future of Sarawak.
With the encouragement and support expressed by the Sarawak Government, MPI looks forward to exploring new opportunities for growth and strengthening its role in Sarawak’s higher education landscape.
Media Coverage
The event was also covered by The Borneo Post, highlighting the Sarawak Government’s support for MPI’s future development and its potential journey towards becoming a full-fledged university.
Source: The Borneo Post
Article: “Sarawak govt hopes to help Methodist Pilley Institute become a university, says Dr Sim”
Published: 6 April 2026
Read the original article on The Borneo Post
Sarawak govt hopes to help Methodist Pilley Institute become a university, says Dr Sim
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