MIRI: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is being positioned as a central pillar in Sarawak’s economic strategy, with state leaders emphasising its role in closing skills gaps and sustaining industrial growth.
Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, said the state’s development trajectory depends less on abstract planning and more on the availability of a skilled, adaptable workforce capable of executing complex projects across sectors.
“Development is not driven by ideas alone. It is delivered by skilled hands and capable minds,” he said today, underscoring the state’s push to align training outcomes with industry demand.
He was speaking at the convocation ceremony of Almacrest Global Skills Centre (AGSC) here, where 58 graduates received their qualifications – a cohort officials say reflects the growing traction of vocational pathways in the state.
Lee outlined TVET’s expanding relevance beyond traditional trades, noting its integration into sectors such as infrastructure delivery, tourism services, digital technology and small and medium-sized enterprises.
The approach signals a broader recalibration of workforce planning as Sarawak seeks to future-proof its economy against technological disruption and shifting market needs.
Sarawak, he added, remains committed to sustained investment in human capital development, with a focus on producing a workforce that is not only technically competent but also innovative and globally competitive.
The convocation also highlighted a more specialised pipeline within the TVET ecosystem – early childhood education.
Lee described the sector as strategically significant, given its long-term impact on cognitive and social development.
“When early childhood educators are properly trained, they create safe and effective learning environments. This forms the foundation for confident and competitive individuals later in life,” he said.
The ceremony marked a milestone for AGSC Miri, celebrating the graduation of four pioneering cohorts from its Early Childhood Education programme under Malaysia’s Skills Certificate framework, Level 3.
AGSC Centre Manager, Sterwina Kho Wan Ling, said the event represented more than academic achievement, describing the graduates as part of a foundational talent pool addressing a critical segment of the education system.
“This is a defining moment not only for the graduates but for the programme itself. They are setting the benchmark for future cohorts and contributing directly to community development,” she added.
She stressed that the centre remains focused on delivering industry-relevant training while nurturing educators equipped with both technical competence and professional commitment.
