KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak will require intellectually capable talents to move forward and remain competitive as a key player in the global economy, particularly in the energy sector, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking at the launch of the Special Financial Aid for Sarawak Students in Institutions of Higher Learning in Malaysia in the capital today, he emphasised the importance of building a skilled workforce to support Sarawak’s growing involvement in international energy ventures.
Referring to his recent working visit to Jakarta with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s role in cross-border collaboration, especially through the Mentarang Induk Hydropower Project (MIHEP) in North Kalimantan, Indonesia.
“Our company, in partnership with Indonesia’s PT Adaro Energy Indonesia, will be involved in developing a hydropower project in Batang Kayan.
“This means Sarawakian talents will be working beyond our borders and that’s just Indonesia,” he said.
He added that Sarawak is also working with partners in Abu Dhabi to develop solar energy initiatives.
“These collaborations show the growing need for competent talent, people with the right expertise and academic background to help Sarawak thrive as a global energy player,” he said.
He added that Japanese firm Sumitomo has also expressed its commitment to participate in the development of the hydrogen energy industry in Sarawak during his recent working visit to Japan.
Abang Johari also noted another major development, a joint venture between South Korea’s OCI TerraSus Sdn Bhd and Japan’s Tokuyama Corporation, following the launch of a semiconductor-grade polysilicon plant at the Samalaju Industrial Park in Bintulu.
The project will require the recruitment of 200 engineers.
“This is the kind of challenge we’re facing now, as foreign investors place their confidence in us. Sarawak is recognised as a progressive state in terms of technology,” he said.
He added that Sarawak’s workforce has strong potential and is highly trainable.
“As part of the government, I’m focused on developing skilled and specialised talent in this area.
“You, our young people, will become global players in the new, borderless economy. Sarawakians can be deployed anywhere in the world,” he said.
