KUCHING: Continuous investment in education and skills training is crucial to ensure Sarawak Bumiputera remains competitive in emerging and technology-driven industries.
Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the development of highly skilled human capital is among the key factors in realising Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a developed and high-income state by 2030.
He said mastery of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is vital to prevent a widening economic gap and ensure Bumiputera communities are not left behind in securing high-value employment opportunities.
“The tendency to choose only easy subjects at the college and university levels without considering market demand could cause the Bumiputera workforce to miss out on high-value job opportunities.
“As a result, opportunities in high-impact industrial sectors may be dominated by more competent and better-prepared individuals,” he said in his 2026 Hari Gawai Dayak message today (May 31).
Wan Junaidi urged community leaders and parents to play an active role in guiding the younger generation towards educational pathways that align with current industry demands.
He added that although STEM and TVET fields are often perceived as challenging, mastery in these areas can open wider career opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of the local workforce.
