KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is building a conducive ecosystem to develop a skilled workforce in the aerospace sector, with a strong emphasis on talent training.
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, highlighted that training is essential as the foundation for high-tech industry growth, particularly in aerospace.
“We need to train the talent first. We cannot talk about developing a sector without having expertise and skilled professionals in that field,” he said.
Speaking at the closing of the Asia Pacific Aerospace Conference and Exhibition (APACE) 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today, Sagah added that academic achievements alone are not enough.
He noted that students usually undergo practical training to gain real-world experience after completing university studies.
“We do not want to produce graduates who only focus as researchers or engineers. They need additional training to enhance their skills,” he said.
Sagah explained that this approach is common in developed countries, where graduates seeking advanced careers in specific fields are sent for specialised skills training.
He said Sarawak requires a technically skilled workforce, which can be cultivated through institutions offering hands-on training and upskilling programmes.
The minister also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening education and skills training to ensure local talent can compete and meet the demands of strategic industries.
On the state’s talent development target for 2030, Sagah said Sarawak is on track, with several educational and training institutions already implementing relevant programmes.
“Now it is 2026, only four years left. Some of our institutions have actually already started,” he said.
