KUCHING: Human capital development will be a key pillar in deepening Japan-Sarawak cooperation, with greater emphasis on skills training, education and workforce readiness to support emerging industries, said Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, Shikata Noriyuki.
He said Japanese investments in Sarawak are increasingly focusing not only on manufacturing, but also on developing local talent.
“With new investments, companies need to hire people in Sarawak.
“Japanese companies have traditionally conducted in-house training, especially in factories, and we are looking to expand this further, including collaborations with universities and even at the preschool level,” he told a press conference after paying a courtesy call on Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Satria Pertiwi Complex today (April 22).
Shikata noted that such efforts are crucial in preparing Sarawakians for future industries, including those driven by digital innovation and the green economy.
Earlier, Shikata alongside Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, briefed the Premier on the launch of a new partnership between Japanese startup, ToyBox Creations and Technologies Sdn Bhd (ToyEight Holdings Inc), and SeDidik, which introduces innovative solutions for inclusive education in Sarawak.
He described the collaboration as the first of its kind in Malaysia, where a state government is adopting such a solution with the support of a Japanese company.
“This is a very forward-looking initiative, starting from preschool education and extending to university level, aimed at creating quality job opportunities for Sarawakians in new industries and business models,” he said.
Shikata added that discussions with the Premier also explored broader investment opportunities, particularly in the green economy, including hydropower and biomass, as well as the application of Japanese technologies in Sarawak.
He said the Premier had conveyed an encouraging message to the Japanese business community, which is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties and attract more investments into the state.
“We see strong potential to deepen cooperation, not only in economic sectors but also in nurturing a new generation of talent in Sarawak,” he said.
On human capital initiatives, Shikata highlighted the use of innovative learning tools, including game-based approaches and digital platforms such as those utilising Nintendo systems, as part of efforts to equip future workers with relevant skills.
“These new solutions are key to building the future workforce. We hope to see closer collaboration in investing in the next generation of people in Sarawak,” he added.
He also noted that the ToyEight collaboration could serve as a model for similar partnerships in Japan, Southeast Asia and beyond.
