05-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Abang Johari: Talent development key to Sarawak's economic transformation
KUCHING: The Sarawak government is conducting a comprehensive talent development policy study to strengthen the state's workforce pipeline, from early education to lifelong learning, in line with its Post Covid-19Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the study, led by the state Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), aims to produce a technically skilled, agile and future ready workforce to drive Sarawak's economic transformation.
"The goal is to produce a technically skilled, agile, innovative and future-ready workforce that will drive Sarawak's economic transformation and ensure long-term sustainability, in line with the goals of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030)," he said.
His speech was delivered by State Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn at the opening of the 11th Sarawak Career and Training Fair (S-CAT Fair) at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
Abang Johari said PCDS 2030 provides a solid foundation for reshaping Sarawak's socio-economic landscape, with a strong emphasis on talent development, innovation, and community empowerment.
He said this vision is already taking shape through several transformative initiatives under the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021–2025), particularly in strengthening the education ecosystem, advancing technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and fostering a culture of innovation.
"Looking ahead, the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030) will mark the second and final phase of PCDS 2030," he said.
Preparations for the plan are underway, involving extensive consultations with ministries, industries, academia, and civil society to develop an inclusive, forward-looking, and comprehensive strategy that places human capital development at the heart of Sarawak's growth agenda.
"Broadly, the 13MP will adopt a multifaceted approach with a strong focus on education and skills development to meet the needs of a modern, knowledge-based economy.
"By nurturing a future-ready workforce and encouraging local innovation, we are enhancing Sarawak's global competitiveness and improving the quality of life," he said.
Abang Johari said the state aims to build a high-income society that is digitally driven and environmentally sustainable.
He stressed that the jobs and industries of the future will require a workforce that is adaptable, creative, and skilled in harnessing advanced technologies.
On the S-CAT Fair, he said it plays a vital role in bridging the aspirations of Sarawak's youth with emerging opportunities across the innovation ecosystem, from advanced manufacturing and biotechnology to the digital economy and renewable energy.
The event is jointly organised by MEITD and Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS).
