KUCHING: The Malay Graduates Association of Sarawak (IGMS) has been urged to play a greater role in preparing local talent for the demands of Sarawak’s future economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the association has the potential to become a strategic partner in developing the state’s human capital as Sarawak advances towards a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
“IGMS holds a significant role as an organisation that pools Malay graduates from various fields of expertise.
“It must expand its leadership, career mentoring, knowledge-sharing and professional networks to ensure our youth seize these opportunities,” he said in a speech read by Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, at the Sarawak Malay Graduates Convention (KGM) 2026 at the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Batu Lintang Campus today.
Abang Johari said Sarawak’s development aspirations under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 require a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, cybersecurity, advanced engineering, renewable energy, biotechnology and the digital economy.
He said the state is actively developing an economy based on green energy, including hydrogen and renewable energy, as well as low-carbon technologies and innovation-driven industries.
The Premier also highlighted the establishment of the Sarawak Aerospace Advisory Council (SAAC) and ongoing efforts towards setting up the Sarawak Space Agency as part of initiatives to strengthen the state’s future economic ecosystem.
Against this backdrop, he stressed that quality human capital – rather than natural resources alone – is Sarawak’s most valuable asset.
“We do not want our children to merely become users of technology. We want them to become creators of technology, innovators, scientists, engineers, researchers and future industry leaders,” he said.
To ensure financial constraints do not hinder talent development, Abang Johari highlighted the state’s implementation of free tertiary education this year for Sarawakian students at institutions owned by the Sarawak Government.
However, he stressed that free education is not the end goal.
“The ultimate objective is to produce high-quality, competent graduates who possess the skills required by future industries,” he added.
The Premier also urged IGMS to serve as a bridge between the government and the younger generation to ensure more young Sarawakians benefit from opportunities created through the state’s economic transformation.
He expressed confidence that IGMS can help shape a more skilled, progressive and competitive generation capable of contributing to Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a developed and high-income region by 2030.
