Quality education and skills training the way forward

KUCHING: Sarawak must develop its people to become a highly skilled, innovative workforce capable of demanding higher wages as the state navigates the new economy.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said since he assumed the role of Chief Minister in 2017, he has witnessed significant progress in education and human capital development.

Sagah delivers a speech at the SCaT Fair 2024 at Hikmah Exchange.

Therefore, he emphasised the importance of Sarawak’s youth receiving quality education and skills training.

“We have improved school conditions, collaborated with technical institutions, and fostered interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

“Additionally, we have allocated RM15 million to provide free laptops to 5,000 Sarawak students in public and private higher learning institutions,” he said, adding that last August, he presented laptops to eligible recipients, affirming the Sarawak government’s commitment to easing the cost of living pressures, especially for low-income families.

He said this in his speech read by Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah, at the Sarawak Career and Training (SCaT) Fair 2024 at Hikmah Exchange here on Saturday.

Abang Johari also highlighted opportunities for private sector investment in educational and training initiatives that support skills development, including mentorship programmes.

He stated that the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development is currently developing the Sarawak Talent Policy to meet the demands of the new economy, particularly in the hydrogen and digital sectors, aiming for a 30 per cent skilled workforce by 2030.

As such, he added, the SCaT Fair has become an essential destination for those seeking education and career opportunities.

“It is a testament to Sarawak’s dedication to nurturing a skilled workforce for the future.

“This annual event brings together hundreds of exhibitors from educational institutions and companies from Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.

“Visitors can explore various career and training options, participate in open interviews, attend career talks, and witness innovation competitions showcasing talents across different fields,” he said.

He urged parents to encourage their children to attend this program.

“I sincerely hope that the interactions at SCaT Fair 2024 yield positive outcomes for both parties,” he said.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, who is also the Chairman of Tegas; Deputy Minister of Transport (Land and Air), Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil, who is also the Deputy Chairman of Tegas; Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Dr. Annuar Rapaee; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol; and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Adana Jed.