SIBU: University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) must strengthen its role in research, innovation and talent development to support Sarawak’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said UTS carries an important responsibility beyond awarding academic qualifications, particularly as the state moves towards a diversified and digitally enabled economy.
“As Sarawak’s own university, UTS carries an important responsibility beyond awarding academic qualifications.
“It must serve as a centre for knowledge development, research, innovation, and talent development,” he said at the university’s 11th Convocation Ceremony here today (Nov 14).
He said education is becoming increasingly important as Sarawak transformed its economy from one traditionally driven by natural resources towards a diversified, knowledge-based and digitally enabled economy.
“UTS must continue producing graduates with strong academic foundations, practical competencies, and professional values, enabling them to respond confidently to evolving industry requirements,” he said.
Abang Johari said the university also has an important role in supporting Sarawak’s ambitions in artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, hydrogen technology, carbon management and other emerging industries.
He said the state’s technological transformation requires more than infrastructure and financial investment, as it also needs a skilled workforce capable of developing, managing and advancing these technologies.
“We need engineers, researchers, data scientists, software developers, cyber security specialists, and professionals across multiple disciplines to develop, operate, and advance these technologies,” he said.
He said UTS and other higher learning institutions must help develop the human capital needed to support these industries.
“Our ambition is not simply to adopt technologies developed elsewhere, but instead we cultivate the capabilities necessary for Sarawak to become an active contributor,” he said.
