By Jacqueline David
KUCHING: The Sarawak Career and Training (SCaT) Fair 2025, held from July 5-6 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), drew a huge crowd of over 30, 000 visitors, marking it as the largest career and training fair ever held thus far.
Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, who is also Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Bumiputera Sarawak (TEGAS) deputy chairman president, said the SCaT Fair 2025 is more than just a job exhibition, it’s a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing income-generating opportunities and reducing unemployment rates across the state.
“Beyond connecting job seekers with employers, the fair serves to strengthen communication networks and streamline information delivery to its targeted groups, reaching deep into grassroots communities.
“By bridging skill development with real-world opportunities, SCaT Fair continues to empower Sarawakians from all backgrounds to take charge of their futures, one connection at a time,” he said when speaking at the closing ceremony of SCaT Fair 2025 at BCCK on Sunday.
This year’s SCaT Fair 2025 marks its 11th edition, and has become Sarawak’s most iconic and impactful annual event, and a much anticipated occasion by the people, bringing together participants from all age groups and walks of life.
Organised by the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) in collaboration with TEGAS, SOCSO and PETROS, the fair featured 1,561 job opportunities across sectors like construction, manufacturing, and services; Interactive zones including the STEM Playground; Oil & Gas Zone and Sarawak Blockchain & Crypto Day.
It also had competitions like the Sarawak Rocketeer CAN-SAT Challenge and Skills MasteMaster Competition, and entertainment at the SCaT Kamboh Stage and Kids’ Fun Zone.
“The event’s success is a testament to Sarawak’s commitment to empowering its youth and workforce through innovation, education, and opportunity. With thousands of job seekers, students, and employers under one roof, SCaT Fair 2025 has set a new benchmark for career expos in the region.
“In a proactive move to equip Malaysian youth with relevant knowledge and skills for today’s increasingly competitive job market, organisers have brought together key institutions from the education, financial, and industrial sectors. This collaborative initiative aims to prepare young people to thrive in the evolving professional landscape.
“I sincerely hope our youth will seize this opportunity to unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s economic growth,” he said.
He added this year’s SCaT Fair 2025 is expected to raise greater awareness about the importance of the digital industry, STEM, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), not only among visitors but throughout Sarawak.
“The event reinforces the Sarawak state government’s firm commitment to advancing digital initiatives under the leadership of the Premier of Sarawak, with support from TEGAS and we hope the fair will serve as a catalyst to encourage youth participation and foster a digitally-skilled workforce aligned with Sarawak’s vision for a tech-driven economy,” said Dr Jerip.
Meanwhile, TEGAS chief executive officer Udin Bujang, said since its inception, this program has consistently evolved through a variety of approaches, with ongoing improvements made to ensure it remains impactful and relevant.
“A wide range of initiatives and engaging activities are designed in line with current trends to cater to the needs and interests of its target audience.
“The programme’s holistic approach not only provides valuable exposure to participants but is also hoped to spark inspiration and nurture a drive to excel in their chosen career paths,” he said.
The SCaT Fair, he said, continues to serve as a dynamic platform for motivation, inspiration, and practical discovery.
“Through meaningful talks, interactive sessions, and engaging activities, the fair is designed to energise attendees and encourage them to pursue success in their chosen fields with resilience and determination.
“The event also opens valuable avenues to explore up-to-date information on education, skills training, career paths, and more. It also serves as a launchpad for building professional networks, uncovering job opportunities, and boosting awareness of current labour market demands, making it a vital resource for anyone preparing for the workforce,” he said.
Among those present at SCaT Fair 2025 closing ceremony were Head of Talent Development Division, Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD), Halina Haron Abdillah, PETROS Head of Industrial Capability, Azid Allan, and Perkeso Sarawak Head of Employment Services, Melvin Lai Jinher.
