Betong: The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is currently refining a proposal to construct a residential facility capable of housing approximately 700 students in Betong, Sarawak. This initiative aims to improve access to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for individuals in rural regions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim has stated that the proposed hostel would serve students from Politeknik Metro Betong Sarawak (PMBS) and Kolej Komuniti Betong. The Sarawak Land and Survey Department has identified a potential 8.814-hectare federally owned site in Batu Api district, located roughly 650 meters from the PMBS campus, for the development of this project.

The ministry plans to request a change in land use and secure the necessary approvals from the Prime Minister's Department, which holds ownership of the land. Adli emphasized the goal of resolving the matter swiftly, aiming for the residential college to accommodate around 700 students, or slightly more.

During the Special Chamber session of the Dewan Rakyat sitting, Adli responded to a query from Datuk Dr Richard Rapu (GPS-Betong) regarding the need to upgrade PMBS into a fully-fledged conventional polytechnic. This transition is seen as crucial for ensuring educational equity and safeguarding the future prospects of rural students in Sarawak.

Adli highlighted the ministry's focus on addressing fundamental issues related to student welfare and accommodation before proposing further developments to the central agencies. To promote institutional growth and attract more students, PMBS plans to introduce a new Diploma in Business Information Systems starting from Session 2 of the 2026/2027 academic year this December.

Currently, PMBS has 291 students enrolled in its Diploma in Finance and Diploma in Tourism Management programs, with a total capacity of 600 students. Additionally, the polytechnic offers short-term courses under its Lifelong Learning (PSH) agenda, which saw participation from 1,137 individuals last year.

In anticipation of the hostel project's phased implementation, Adli noted that PMBS has formed a Student Residential and Accommodation Management Committee. This committee is tasked with coordinating the welfare, accommodation, and safety of students residing in rented accommodations near the campus.