KUCHING: Sarawak needs more technocrats and skilled professionals in science-related fields to strengthen the implementation of its climate change policies and green economic development, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said that while Sarawak is endowed with rich natural resources, developing a highly knowledgeable and skilled workforce is equally vital to ensure the effective management and execution of its net-zero strategy.
“We need technocrats, people who are well-versed in science and capable of contributing to this effort. We also need quality human resources,” he said in his special address during the Sarawak Net Zero Strategy and Carbon Plan Open Day, here today (Oct 7).
He added that during his visit to the London School of Economics (LSE) three weeks ago, he had discussions with the university’s experts and vice-chancellor on environmental issues.
He said they agreed that Sarawak possesses a major advantage due to its abundance of natural resources.
“They said Sarawak is fortunate to have such natural capital. But what we need now is human capital.
“Once we have both—our natural capital and well-trained human capital—the world will open its doors to us,” he said.
Abang Johari also mentioned that this combination of natural and human capital will enable Sarawak to emerge as a key global player in climate change mitigation and the carbon economy.
To achieve this, he said, the state government is focusing on strengthening local capacity by investing in science and technology education.
“Starting next year, the Sarawak government will provide free higher education for all Sarawakians. This is part of our approach to train local talent in scientific fields,” he announced.
Apart from that, he pointed out the importance of developing Sarawak’s own technologies and devices to help find solutions, including nature-based solutions, to address climate challenges.
“We all share the responsibility of safeguarding the future of our next generation—and the future of this planet,” he said.
