KUCHING: Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp) will channel RM1 million under its Industrial Training Matching Grant Initiative for Small and Medium Enterprises (LiKES) to Sarawak SMEs, said group chief executive officer (CEO) Thomas Mathew.
He said that this innitiative will support at least 700 internship placements across 400 companies, helping SMEs nurture the next generation of Sarawakian talent.
Thomas said the move comes as Sarawak enters a new phase of industrial growth, from semiconductor investments to renewable energy projects and Malaysia’s first Tier-4 green data centre park, signalling the state’s deeper integration into global value chains.
“Our Critical Occupations List (MYCOL) 2024/2025 highlights some of the most pressing shortages nationwide in skilled trades, engineering, ICT, healthcare, and education with ICT professionals especially in demand as Sarawak advances its Digital Economy Strategy 2030.
“This shows that Sarawak’s labour market is under pressure, and closing these gaps is essential to unlock the state’s economic ambitions,” he said in his speech during the Industry Connect @ Sarawak 2025 officiated by Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn at a hotel here today (Sept 24).
Thomas added that with this, TalentCorp plays a key role beyond that of an implementing agency.
“As the strategic think tank for the Ministry of Human Resources, or KESUMA, our role is to shape policies and strategies that are practical and impactful, and to help Malaysia navigate this disruption by turning data into strategy and strategy into action.
“For example, with tools like MyMahir and MyNext, we are aligning education outcomes with industry demand, ensuring Sarawakians are prepared for the high-value jobs coming with new investments.
“Through our Internship Matching Grant for SMEs and Start-ups, or what we call as LiKES, we strengthen SMEs — the backbone of our economy, employing 70 per cent of our workforce by helping them build and retain talent,” he added.
