RM13.6 mln to turn skills into livelihoods

SARAWAK is set to allocate RM13.6 million in 2027 to help youths and rural communities turn skills training into employment, income and business opportunities.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the government would continue expanding training aligned with industry needs and targeted upskilling to improve household incomes.

“Our objective is to ensure that every investment in skills creates a tangible pathway to employment, income generation and enterprise development,” he said when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 today (Oct 12).

The allocation will support Program Latihan Pembangunan Keusahawanan, Graduan Ke Arah Keusahawanan, Go Digital, Satu Daerah Satu Industri and the Sarawak Global Export Programme.

Abang Johari said these efforts would be complemented by training, capital assistance and market access for welfare recipients, persons with disabilities, single mothers and vulnerable families to help them move into sustainable employment.

Under Usahawan Mikro Kebajikan, RM2.5 million will benefit 835 micro-entrepreneurs from the B40 group, including persons with disabilities, single mothers and widows.

A further RM560,000 will support Women Vocational Skills Training and Sarawak Women at Work, while RM320,000 will be channelled to Bantuan Ketua Isi Rumah Wanita Sarawak to help women household heads pursue sustainable economic activities.

The government will also allocate RM400,000 to the Low-Income Family Empowerment Programme to support 120 families in small business ventures.

Meanwhile, RM800,000 will go towards Randau Pembangunan Sosial to strengthen participation among rural and remote communities, with RM600,000 each for Geran Intervensi Sosial Sarawak and the Integrated Sarawak Social Intervention Programme.

“The government is determined to ensure that every Sarawakian has access to quality jobs, sustainable incomes, and opportunities to uplift their families,” he said.