SIBU: The Sibu Automobile Repairers Association (SARA) recently held its Education Incentive Awards ceremony, celebrating 25 outstanding students.
The recipients were children of association members who excelled in public examinations, ranging from Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) to tertiary education level.
Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, who officiated as the guest of honour, said the event reflected the association’s care for its members’ welfare as well as its commitment to supporting the education and development of the younger generation.
“Education is a force for changing destiny and the cornerstone of sustainable development for families and society.
“I believe the award recipients will be proud of their parents’ hard work and example, strive in their studies, and make greater contributions to society in the future.”
Touching on the automotive repair industry, Wong noted that it is a vital sector supporting the smooth operation of the socio-economic ecosystem, from public transport to tourism.
Without the skills and dedication of those working behind the scenes, he said, the transportation system would not be able to operate smoothly and safely.
Wong also praised the leadership of SARA president Penghulu Teo Nging Poh, commending his ability to build strong industry networks and encourage knowledge sharing among members.
He highlighted the rapid transformation of the automotive sector, especially the shift from petrol-based vehicles to electric and new energy vehicles.
“These changes bring both challenges and opportunities. Therefore, industry members must be empowered with technical training and new knowledge, including smart diagnostic systems and energy-saving technologies.”
Wong called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, industry players and technical training institutions to provide technical support and training resources to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) transition towards improvement and digitalisation.
He also pointed out shifting job market trends, noting that blue-collar workers’ income has now surpassed that of some white-collar workers.
“This development is due to the shortage of skilled workers, which has led to a natural rise in wages, while the surplus of administrative workers has caused white-collar salaries to stagnate.
“The true value of a job does not lie in the colour of the uniform but in the skills and professional contributions of a person. This is why vocational education and skills training must be prioritised.”
Encouraging SARA to remain united, innovative and proactive in empowering the local automotive industry, Wong expressed confidence that the association would continue to excel and push the industry forward.
