KUCHING: There is no issue regarding a lack of talent emerging in Sarawak, says political sociology expert, Professor Dr Novel Lyndon.
He was responding to an article titled “The Viability of Sarawak’s Mega Projects Also Depends on Local Factors”, which questioned the availability of skilled labour, low demand, and high construction costs associated with new airports, public transport systems, and the state’s gas plan.
According to Novel, the expert opinion expressed in the article is inaccurate, and such views fail to consider long-term factors.
“I don’t see a talent shortage arising because Sarawak has various institutions that are fully capable of producing a competent workforce.
“In fact, many Sarawakians currently working in Peninsular Malaysia can contribute their expertise and experience if needed in various fields or critical sectors,” he said.
He added that advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) across technical and service sectors, as well as heavy and medium industries, could help address concerns about talent shortages and the sustainability of mega projects.
He noted that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s boldness in initiating mega projects is aimed at positioning Sarawak as an economic growth hub.
“With target markets such as Indonesia and the Philippines, for example, the construction of large and sophisticated airports is vital to accommodate the increasing number of tourists and visitors to Sarawak,” he added.
He added that new flight routes to China, Kalimantan, and countries such as Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea – through strategic cooperation between AirBorneo and other airlines – could significantly boost tourist arrivals.
“Sarawak’s cultural products and authenticity can surely be promoted as tourism assets, along with health and service-based offerings.
“Hence, I don’t see any major issues arising,” he opined.
Novel stressed that large-scale development is essential to make Sarawak attractive to both foreign and domestic investors.
He urged all segments of society, regardless of cultural or ethnic background, to support Abang Johari’s development initiatives.
“The new international airport project and the Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system powered by hydrogen, in my view, are long-term investments.
“What will happen to Kuching City if facilities like the ART are not developed within the next 10 years?
“Surely, congestion issues will arise, and this won’t help attract foreign investors.
“This means a strong transportation network must be implemented. Otherwise, we will later regret and ask ourselves – why didn’t we do it earlier?” he asked.
He noted that the impact of mega projects represents significant, long-term investments in Sarawak’s branding.
“Large-scale investment in energy and infrastructure is necessary to support the development of other sectors such as small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“These sectors act as the nucleus that will ultimately spill over into other industries such as tourism and hospitality – it’s like a spider web effect,” he said.
He concluded by urging experts featured in the earlier news portal article to consider Sarawak’s long-term investment strategy and take into account the state government’s education policies.
