TVET key to building skilled workforce for Sarawak’s digital, green economy, says Abang Johari

KUCHING (Dec 16): Sarawak’s transition towards a digital and green economy requires a highly skilled workforce capable of driving sustainable growth and innovation, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He emphasised that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is central to preparing Sarawak’s workforce for industries reshaped by technology and sustainability, acting as a catalyst to develop a generation of professionals who are innovative, disciplined, and adaptable to technological advances.

“With the rapid growth of the digital economy and the state’s strong focus on green industries, the need for a highly skilled workforce is becoming increasingly critical,” he said, noting that Sarawak’s economic transformation under Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 is guided by global sustainability mandates and the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technologies.

His speech was delivered by the State Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis at the Premier Gold Hand Award Ceremony 2025 held in conjunction with the fourth edition of WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak (WSM-Sarawak) on Monday.

Abang Johari highlighted that WSM-Sarawak has become a strategic platform to nurture young talent aligned with the state’s economic needs.

“This platform plays a significant role in identifying young talent at an early stage, nurturing them intensively, and opening pathways to new opportunities at both the state and global levels,” he said.

He added that exposing Sarawak’s youth to world-class skills standards, modern technologies and global benchmarks of excellence strengthens their capabilities through structured training, expert guidance and competition-based learning.

“This initiative bridges the gap between education and industry, ensuring Sarawak’s youth are not only employable but also leaders in advancing our economy,” he noted.

The Premier also highlighted the upcoming Sarawak Talent Development Policy and Blueprint, which aims to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors in developing a future-ready workforce.

“With reliable energy systems, expanding digital connectivity and strong logistics, Sarawak is building an enabling environment for businesses to innovate sustainably,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) and the Sarawak Regional Skills Development Department (JPK) for their continued efforts in creating platforms to train and develop young talent to drive Sarawak’s future growth.