KUCHING: The Sarawak government remains committed to empowering local youth to pursue careers in security, enforcement, and high-impact technology sectors in line with its goal of becoming a developed state.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said a modern and competitive state needs a highly skilled and disciplined workforce that is well-versed in advanced technologies.
“We must train our own workforce. If we wish to move forward, our younger generation needs to be exposed to modern security theories and disciplines,” he said.
He was speaking at the launch of the Sarawak Command Net (SCNet) in conjunction with the eighth anniversary celebration of the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) at a hotel here on Tuesday.
As part of the state’s human capital development initiative, Abang Johari expressed the Sarawak government’s intention to offer scholarships to Sarawakian youth interested in pursuing careers in security, with opportunities to study at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom.
“These students will be sent abroad to gain exposure to internationally recognised security systems.
“This is not about forming our own army, but rather about nurturing local talent and expertise that can serve in various agencies, including the police, the military, and UKPS,” he said.
He also highlighted that although security remains under federal jurisdiction, the Sarawak government is taking proactive steps to enhance the safety of its people and the protection of state assets.
“We are not taking over federal security responsibilities. However, we are complementing them to ensure that the people feel more comprehensively protected. Coordination between federal and state security agencies is vital,” he added.
Abang Johari said the launch of SCNet marks a strategic move to strengthen the state’s security infrastructure and to enhance tactical communication between UKPS and other enforcement agencies.
“The SCNet technology will improve coordination and operational efficiency between Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UPKS) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, and other security agencies,” he said.
