Abdullah: Science and tech mastery crucial for Sarawak’s youth

KUCHING: There is a need for a technologically adept younger generation to capitalise on opportunities within today’s open economy.

In stating this, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Sarawak Public Communication Unit) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said such a generation can be developed through the collaborative efforts of Sarawak Foundation and Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), facilitating sponsorships for students aspiring to excel in science and technology.

“With the sponsorships given, more capable students can be produced. We want students not just to fill the employment quota but also to have the quality that can make us all proud,” he said.

He said this when officiating at the Lawatan Muhibbah ke Sarawak, Pegawai-Pegawai Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia, Majlis Amanah Rakyat, Pengetua dan Guru-guru Pengawas, Sarawak Foundation Student Exchange Programme dinner at Waterfront Hotel here last night.

Touching on the programme, he stated that though Sarawak itself has the best schools that also provide good facilities to students, under the Sarawak Foundation Student Exchange Programme, students will have the opportunity to study at a renowned school, providing many advantages and meaningful exposure to Sarawak students.

“This exposure is very valuable which will educate students to be independent, socialise, interact and communicate with their friends who come from all over the country with various backgrounds,” he said

He also expressed hope that the joint venture between Sarawak Foundation and Petronas will bring a meaningful impact not only from the aspect of human development for the country but also in succeeding in producing skilled, quality young people with high leadership.

“Hopefully this effort continues and becomes a start for all of us. I am confident that this will lead to attracting the interest of other corporate bodies to follow in the footsteps of Petronas by establishing a network with the Sarawak Foundation for our younger generation.

“With that, I also hope that this programme will continue in the future so that the young generation involved continue to excel in the field of education and our ambition for Sarawak to become a developed state by 2030 will come true,” he said.