KOTA SAMARAHAN: University graduates must step up to become creators of innovation, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), rather than remaining mere consumers of technology.
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) vice-chancellor Professor Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit issued this challenge, emphasising that the rapid rise of AI is radically transforming global industries and redefining modern employment.
“We are witnessing rapid advancements in AI that are reshaping almost every sector.
“This shift is happening so quickly that what is relevant today may become obsolete tomorrow,” he said during the closing ceremony of the Talent Recruitment and Career Exhibition (TRACE) 2026 at DeTAR Putra UNIMAS on Wednesday (June 10).
He pointed out that the theme of this year’s exhibition, “AI Digital Talent for Future-Ready Workforce,” mirrors global economic shifts toward knowledge, technology and innovation.
Consequently, he noted, higher education institutions like UNIMAS bear a critical responsibility to produce resilient grads capable of adapting to shifting workplace demands.
“The employment landscape has drastically changed from previous eras.
“Academic qualifications alone are no longer enough; the market now demands 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy and agile problem-solving.”
To address these market disruptions, he stated that UNIMAS is reinforcing its Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiatives.
The university is also expanding strategic partnerships with local industries and international counterparts to ensure its academic output aligns closely with global economic trends and Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
The two-day career carnival featured 74 exhibition booths hosted by corporate entities, government departments, and private agencies, which collectively offered 2,274 jobs to job seekers and prospective graduates.
Also present were Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg; UNIMAS Board of Directors chairman Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Sulong Matjeraie; deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Professor Ir Ts Dr Al-Khalid Othman; deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Ir Dr Siti Noor Linda Taib and Student Development Centre director Dr Edris Aden.
