Sarawak, a Malaysian state, is making strides in developing its populace into a skilled workforce that has the knowledge and capability to command higher salaries in the changing economic landscape. This drive is fueled by an emphasis on innovative thinking and high-quality education, and has seen significant progress in recent years.
Since 2017, Sarawak’s Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has observed remarkable growth in the region regarding education and human capital development. According to him, the youth of Sarawak play a central role in the state’s future, which is why their education and skills development is so essential.
The state has made measurable strides in these areas. School conditions have improved significantly, partnerships with technical institutions have been established, a robust interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) has been fostered, and an investment of RM15 million ($3.6 million) has been made to provide free laptops to 5,000 students attending public and private higher learning institutions in Sarawak.
These steps affirm the Sarawak government’s commitment to its people, and specifically to supporting low-income families who—given the challenges of cost of living pressures—otherwise may struggle to equip their children with the necessary tools for their education.
In a speech delivered by the Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah, at the Sarawak Career and Training (SCaT) Fair 2024, Minister Abang Johari highlighted the private sector’s potential to invest in educational and training initiatives which will fortify skill development. This could be achieved through mechanisms such as mentorship programs.
The Minister also cited the development of a Sarawak Talent Policy by the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development. This policy is being designed in anticipation of the needs critical to Sarawak’s new economy—specifically those of the hydrogen and digital sectors—and sets an ambitious target of developing a skilled workforce that constitutes 30% of the state’s population by 2030.
The SCaT Fair is mission-critical to Sarawak’s efforts to build a well-resourced workforce. It is an annual event that has become a pivotal platform for those in search of career and education opportunities, and it serves as a demonstration of Sarawak’s dedication to cultivating a sophisticated workforce.
This event draws hundreds of exhibitors from educational institutions and companies nationwide, providing a horizon for visitors to discover an array of career paths and training opportunities. The SCaT Fair also hosts open interviews, attend career talks, and facilitates innovation competitions, giving a platform for talents in diverse fields to shine.
Minister Abang Johari implores parents to support their children in making the most of this opportunity. He reiterates his hope that the exchanges and opportunities presented at SCaT Fair 2024 will yield positive results for all parties involved.
The event is attended by several distinguished individuals, including Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh; Deputy Minister of Transport (Land and Air), Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil; Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Dr. Annuar Rapaee; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol; and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Ms. Adana Jed.
