TVET as key pillar in Sarawak’s economic development

BINTULU: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been recognised as a main pillar in Sarawak’s economic development.

Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD) Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said TVET not only provides the skilled workforce required by the industry but also offers career opportunities for students and youths in the rapidly growing green technology and digital sectors.

He said one of the key initiatives that will drive TVET education in Sarawak is the Sarawak Career and Training (ScaT) Fair 2024, which will be held in Kuching from Oct 5 to 6, and in Sibu from Nov 2 to 3.

The fair aims to introduce youths to TVET education opportunities and various careers in technical fields.

“ScaT Fair serves as a platform to showcase how TVET can transform individuals’ futures and contribute to the state’s economic growth.

“The fair will also feature events such as the TVET Battlefield and STEM Playground, providing participants with hands-on experiences in the technical skills required by industries,” he said.

He was officiating at the ‘Industry-Academia 2024: A Road to TVET Education in Digitalisation and Green Technology Industries in Sarawak’ seminar, co-organised by MEITD, Sarawak Skills, and the Advanced Technology Training Centre (ADTEC) Bintulu at Goldenbay Hotel today.

The seminar, attended by around 50 participants emphasised the importance of TVET in addressing the challenges of the digital era and green economy.

To ensure that the local workforce remains relevant and competitive, MEITD has also launched the Industry Continuous Professional Development (iCPD) programme that focuses on upskilling in critical sectors under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, with an emphasis on reskilling, upskilling, and multi-skilling.

“iCPD is a testament to the state government’s commitment to developing a highly skilled local workforce. It is an important step to reduce dependence on foreign workers and ensure that Sarawak remains competitive at the global level,” Sagah said.

He also highlighted the importance of WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak (WMS), a state-level skills competition held every two years to uncover the talents of Sarawakian youths in technical fields.

“TVET is the future of Sarawak, and through WorldSkills, we can elevate local talents to the global stage.

“This competition is not just about winning but about recognising skills that will drive the state’s economic progress,” he said.

With initiatives such as the ScaT Fair, iCPD, and WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak, Sagah reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to making TVET the cornerstone of Sarawak’s economic development.

“Technical education is the foundation in shaping a workforce capable of facing the challenges of modern industries. We are committed to strengthening this TVET agenda for a more prosperous future for Sarawak,” he added.