S’wak plans to attract more talent, develop high-income economy, says DPM Fadillah

KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 19): Sarawak is positioning itself as a hub for technological and economic growth through strategic investments in education, innovation and talent development, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

Speaking to reporters at the 15th edition of the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre here today, he said the state’s vision is to become a high-income economy driven.

“We have a strategy moving forward through the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, with a key focus on technology such as hydrogen, green technology and digital economy.

“To achieve a high-income economy, we need the people and that is why we are heavily investing in education and talent development,” he said.

Fadillah highlighted that Sarawak is in the position in Malaysia as the only state with multiple full-fledged universities, which was made possible through significant investment from Yayasan Sarawak and universities as well as institutions were also set up by the state in producing skilled professionals.

“We have Swinburne University, Curtin University, the Centre for Technical Excellence Sarawk and other institutions.

“So, we’re looking into the academic perspective and also the technical expertise. That is why we are providing free education in 2026 in selected courses, in particular engineering and technology, so these people will be able to meet any requirements by the state,” he said.

He noted the state’s focus on education and innovation has already begun to bear fruit, with Sarawakians working abroad in various fields, including medical, scientific and technical sectors, returning to the state to contribute to its growth.

“You’ll be surprised to know many Sarawakians working overseas are already coming back to serve the state in various sectors,” he said.

While there were no exact figures on the number of Sarawakians who have returned, Fadillah acknowledged that many are now employed with key state companies such as Petros and Petchem as well as universities and the medical field.

However, he emphasised more talent is needed to fill the growing number of vacancies across various sectors.

“This is why we are focusing on fast-tracking the education and training of as many Sarawakians as possible. By gaining knowledge, expertise and experience quickly, they will be ready to meet the demands of the state,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of networking and maintaining connections between Sarawakians in and out of the state.

“At the end of the day, if you produce something in Sarawak, you need to export it and that requires strong connections outside the state. That’s part of the strategy moving forward to not only develop Sarawak but contribute to Malaysia’s growth. As long as you can offer good services to Sarawak, you are welcome to serve here,” he said.