SIBU: The University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) aims not only to produce graduates but also to develop competent, skilled and work-ready individuals who can contribute meaningfully to industry and Sarawak’s economic growth.
UTS vice-chancellor Dr Mohammad Shahril Osman said investing in human capital was an investment in the state’s future, adding that more local talent should be given opportunities to develop their careers and contribute towards building a skilled, capable and competitive workforce.
“We want to see more local talent given the opportunity to grow, develop their careers and contribute towards building a skilled, capable and competitive workforce,” he said at the UTS Career Launchpad and Career Fair 2026 today.
A total of 12 companies were offering 402 job vacancies, while 22 employers participated as exhibitors to promote their organisations and establish strategic networks.
Shahril said the demand for skilled, knowledgeable and adaptable workers would become increasingly important as Sarawak’s economy continued to advance.
“As a university owned by the Sarawak state government, UTS recognises its responsibility to contribute towards developing a workforce that supports the state’s economic aspirations.
“This responsibility extends beyond providing academic qualifications to preparing graduates for the opportunities and challenges of an evolving economy,” he said.
He added that under its new management, UTS was placing greater emphasis on strengthening engagement and collaboration with industry as part of its institutional development and strategic direction.
He said universities and industries should work closely together to ensure that the knowledge and expertise developed in universities remained relevant to the needs and expectations of the business and industrial sectors.
Moving forward, UTS aimed to establish stronger and more sustainable industry relationships through strategic partnerships, collaborative initiatives, knowledge exchange and greater industry engagement.
The university also welcomed greater industry involvement in its development through the sharing of expertise, insights into emerging industry trends and contributions to ensuring that its academic programmes remained relevant to changing workplace requirements.
“Beyond strengthening our institutional relationships, we must also consider the broader role of UTS in supporting Sarawak’s development,” he said.
Shahril described initiatives such as the Career Launchpad and Career Fair as important platforms for students and graduates to explore employment opportunities and engage directly with potential employers.
He said the event also allowed industry partners to identify potential employees, recruit suitable candidates for internships and permanent positions, and connect with emerging talent.
Meanwhile, PERKESO Sibu manager Dundang Undong said the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO), through its employment services, remained committed to expanding job opportunities and improving the employability of the nation’s workforce.
He said one of its key initiatives was MYFutureJobs, a national employment portal offering job-matching services, career searches and support for both job seekers and employers.
SOCSO also provided career guidance, assistance with resume writing, interview preparation and various employability enhancement programmes to help job seekers secure positions suited to their qualifications and skills.
Dundang said many young people, as well as senior employees with decades of working experience, had been severely affected financially and had lost their jobs.
Employers had also experienced a significant impact on their operations and revenue, forcing many businesses to shut down.
“Consequently, it is crucial for SOCSO to disseminate information and provide appropriate benefit assistance to eligible contributors, ensuring that the social protection rights of SOCSO contributors and stakeholders are upheld,” he said.
