BINTULU: The expansion of a semiconductor polysilicon facility in Samalaju is expected to require around 1,000 engineers, reflecting strong demand for skilled talent in Sarawak’s high-tech sector.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development reflects the rapid growth of the semiconductor sector here, particularly in Samalaju, which is emerging as a key industrial zone for future technologies.
“At the moment there is one expansion plant in Samalaju that will produce semiconductor polysilicon and they require 1,000 engineers,” he said during a press conference after the ‘Sarawakku Sayang’ Bintulu programme at the Bintulu Old Airport today (May 23).
He said the recruitment process has already begun, with vacancies advertised through JobSarawak, reflecting the immediate manpower needs of the expanding facility.
Abang Johari said the state government is actively ensuring that local graduates are positioned to benefit from these opportunities, particularly through structured industry exposure during their studies.
“I have also shared with them to take interns from our universities. During the holidays, they can work there, and if they are suitable, they can be absorbed as engineers in the plant,” he said.
He said this internship-to-employment pathway is crucial in bridging the gap between academic training and industrial requirements, especially in fast-evolving sectors such as semiconductors and advanced materials.
The Premier added that Sarawak is already building a strong talent pipeline, with thousands of students enrolled in science-based programmes that align with the state’s long-term industrial strategy.
“As you know, we have registered 4,000 new students in science-based courses, and these people can be part of the supply chain in human resources, particularly engineers,” he said.
He stressed that developing local expertise is essential to support the expansion of high-value industries in Bintulu, which is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for green and advanced manufacturing under the state’s low-carbon development agenda.
Abang Johari said the semiconductor sector is not only expected to generate employment but also strengthen Sarawak’s ability to participate in global technology supply chains, particularly in emerging areas linked to energy and advanced computing.
He added that aligning education with industry demand remains a key priority under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which focuses on building a skilled workforce for the new economy.
The Premier said the approach ensures that Sarawak’s economic transformation is supported by homegrown talent, reducing reliance on external expertise while strengthening long-term economic resilience.
