BY ASYRAF HALIM
KUCHING: GIATMARA’s role as a leading driver in strengthening skills development in Sarawak continues to grow, as more of its graduates successfully secure positions in major state industries and mega construction projects.
GIATMARA Board member, Che Rahim Daud, said that the achievement reflects the institution’s capability in producing a skilled workforce that meets local industry demands while contributing to the state’s economic progress.
“This success is not by chance, but the result of well-planned strategies to ensure our training remains aligned with industry needs,” he said in his keynote address at the 38th GIATMARA Malaysia Convocation, Session 9, held at the Penview Convention Centre (PCC) Demak here on Wednesday.
He said that strong collaboration with key players such as Sarawak Energy, particularly in the construction and energy sectors, has widened employment opportunities for graduates.
Che Rahim also noted that Sarawak’s large-scale development projects and green energy initiatives continue to drive demand for technical expertise.
“Fields including electrical, mechanical, automotive, welding and metal fabrication are showing strong market demand,” he said.
He stressed that GIATMARA’s industry-driven training model ensures its curriculum remains relevant and responsive to changing workforce requirements.
“When skills development moves in tandem with industry, graduates are not only employable but have the potential to become entrepreneurs who create new opportunities for others,” he added.
Che Rahim also highlighted that GIATMARA has produced 50 millionaire entrepreneurs, achievements documented in the publication 50 Permata Biru with a second volume expected soon.
He said that GIATMARA’s current graduate employability rate has reached 99.49 per cent, demonstrating a high level of industry confidence in the institution’s training system.
GIATMARA currently operates 232 training centres nationwide, offering over 100 full-time and 400 part-time courses across various fields, including electrical technology, automotive, sewing, culinary arts and information technology.
“TVET is proven to be more than a second-choice pathway. Through the National TVET Policy 2030, this sector is now elevated as a premier platform for empowering the nation’s skilled workforce,” he added.
A total of 425 graduates from Sarawak were celebrated at the ceremony, out of 1,006 GIATMARA graduates nationwide.
