KUCHING: Sarawak’s ability to develop high-quality human capital will be a key determinant of the state’s success in achieving its development aspirations.
Hence the emphasis given to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key platform to produce highly skilled, technology-literate local talent.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said TVET is a main engine in preparing the workforce to face global economic challenges and advanced technological developments.
“Sarawak is now on the brink of an economic transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI), modern technologies and global sustainability demands.
“This structural economic transformation increases the demand for a local workforce that is not only technically skilled, but also knowledgeable in new technologies and adaptable to future industry needs,” he said.
He said this in a speech read by Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, at the Premier Sarawak Golden Hand Award 2025 ceremony here Monday (Dec15).
In this context he said TVET acts as a catalyst for talent development through investments in upgrading training facilities and improving teaching quality.
“In addition, TVET plays a role in strengthening collaboration with industry partners to ensure training remains relevant to market needs,” he said.
Elaborating, he said WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak (WSM–Sarawak) serves as a strategic platform to identify and develop youth potential.
“This platform enables participants to gain exposure to world-class skills standards, modern technologies, structured training and expert guidance.
“WSM–Sarawak not only produces skilled workers, but also shapes a generation of industry players capable of driving Sarawak’s future progress,” he explained.
Abang Johari also praised the achievements of Sarawakian youths who have won various awards at national and international levels through WorldSkills.
“Congratulations to all of you, our young ambassadors who have brought pride to Sarawak and Malaysia, while proving that TVET education is a quality and appropriate choice,” he said.
He stressed that cooperation between the public and private sectors is crucial in developing the state’s talent landscape.
“Programmes such as the Academy in Industry (ADI) will ensure Sarawak has a future workforce that is skilled, agile and ready to support modern industries.
“Let us continue to work together, support one another and invest in the potential of the younger generation so that we can jointly build a future Sarawak that is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable,” he stressed.
Abang Johari also expressed appreciation to all agencies and judging panels that ensured the successful organisation of WSM–Sarawak.
“Let us move forward with the spirit of Segulai Sejalai, Sejiwa dan Sehala to realise Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a prosperous, progressive and high-income region by 2030,” he said.
