SARAWAK EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH TO TRANSFORM ECONOMIC BASE - ABANG JOHARI

KUCHING, Dec 11 (Bernama) -- Sarawak is focused on expanding its global reach to acquire relevant knowledge with the goal of transforming its economic base.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that for this reason, Sarawak has implemented a dual language policy, incorporating both Bahasa Malaysia and English to ensure effective communication and broader access to global knowledge.

"We need many technologists who are well-trained in science, physics, mathematics and language," he said when speaking at the 4th Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Conference here today.

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He said the state is also expanding its ambitions in the aerospace industry as Sarawak-owned ICATS University College is now offering degree courses in aerospace and collaborating with international institutions to develop the necessary expertise for the sector.

"Digitalisation is also linked with satellites, and for that, we have to know the technology in aerospace, satellites, rockets, and so on for the purpose of good function, not for war, but rather for us to explore the resource that is available on this planet," he said.

Meanwhile, Sarawak Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the TVET’s role in bridging the skills gap and preparing the workforce for the future has been vital as the demand for skilled professionals across key sectors continues to grow.

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In his text of speech read by his deputy Datuk Francis Harden Hollis at the event, he said his ministry is committed to equipping youth with the skills needed to thrive in a digital and rapidly changing world.

"TVET plays a crucial role in addressing the skills gap and ensuring that the workforce is ready for the future of work," he said.

Around 500 delegates from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other countries attended the 4th BIMP-EAGA TVET Conference.

The conference, with the theme "Building a Sustainable Future Through TVET," brought together leaders, experts, and key stakeholders from various sectors and nations to discuss the ongoing transformation of TVET. 

-- BERNAMA