Betong Vocational College student clinches Premier Gold Hand Award at WorldSkills Sarawak

KUCHING (Dec 16): Liew Jew Sheng, a 17-year-old student from Betong Vocational College, made headlines after emerging as a top winner at the Sarawak Premier Gold Hand Award Ceremony 2025.

He won the gold medal in the Additive Manufacturing category at WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak (WSM-Sarawak) 2025 and was conferred the prestigious Sarawak Premier Gold Hand Award.

Currently in his fourth semester of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Liew spent more than a year preparing for the competition.

He explained that Additive Manufacturing is a field that focuses on research and development of mechanical models, including robots.

“My journey in this field began at the college, guided by my teachers who encouraged me to participate in competitions,” he added.

When asked about his motivation, Liew attributed it to his father.

“My father works as an automotive mechanic and his influence sparked my interest, which inspired me to pursue this field,” he said.

Liew’s father, aged 53, runs an automotive workshop in Jelukong, and specialises in car repair.

Inspired by his father, Liew hopes his success will encourage young Sarawakians to explore vocational and technical skills.

“I hope that more young talent will be interested in studying in TVET as it will contribute to the state’s development,” he said.

Looking ahead, Liew expressed his ambition to represent Sarawak at a higher level, saying he will continue to train and improve his skills.

“I want to thank my coach for guiding me carefully and giving me so much advice,” he added.

WSM-Sarawak is a bi-annual state-level skills competition jointly organised by the State Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) and Sarawak Regional Skills Development Department (JPK), providing a platform for young talents to showcase their skills, fostering innovation, and preparing Sarawak’s next generation of skilled professionals.