Adjust mindset and look global, says Premier

KUCHING: Local talents in the state need to be nurtured with a global mindset so that they can play a significant role in the new economy.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak’s role is no longer limited to the state or the country, but extending to becoming a global player in the evolving economy.

“To be a global player, our mindset must be global. Our talent must be developed based on that outlook, and education plays a key role in driving economic development,” he said.

He said this during the 40th anniversary dinner of the Association of the Boards of Management of Aided Chinese Primary Schools in Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Division at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here last night (Oct 1).

Abang Johari cited global figures like Jack Ma, who succeeded by blending Western and Chinese education, of which goes to shows how embracing global perspectives can enhance development.

“Huawei engineers, educated in the West, returned to China and contributed to the nation’s growth.

“Same goes to the former Singaporean leader, the late Lee Kuan Yew on how he transformed Singapore after gaining exposure in the United States.

“In other words, Sarawak’s leaders must similarly adopt a global outlook,” he said.

Abang Johari, who is also the Energy and Environmental Sustainability Minister, said the world is facing climate-related disasters, and there is an urgent need of addressing global warming.

“The world is seeking solutions. Thank God, Sarawak can contribute to global solutions because we have the resources. However, we need the technology, particularly in renewable energy,” he said, adding that the state is now producing hydrogen and solar energy.

He said Sarawak is collaborating with China in solar technology as part of the state’s energy transition.

“We are also very fortunate because we can cultivate algae to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

“On top of that, we can grow grass and turn it into biomass, of which it then can be converted into grass pellet. We have already exported two million of Napier grass. There you are,” he said.

Abang Johari said the development of Sarawak’s talent is key to leveraging these resources and advancing the state’s position on the global stage.

“We have the resources, but we need the talent to adopt the technology, not only for Sarawak and Malaysia but to contribute to the world in this region,” he said.

Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Association of the Boards of Management of Aided Chinese Primary Schools in Kuching, Samarahan and Serian president Datuk Jonathan Chai, Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations (SFCA) president Datuk Richard Wee, and Sarawak Education director Datuk Dr Azhar Ahmad.