MIRI – The Sarawak Public Service Commission (SPANS) has extended its outreach efforts to the Bario Highlands through the 2026 programme, aimed at widening access to career opportunities and public services for rural communities.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) and Mulu Assemblyman, Datuk Gerawat Gala, said the initiative is part of the state government’s strategy to ensure inclusivity in development.
He explained that the programme bridges the information gap between urban and rural areas, providing direct access to career-related information and government initiatives.
Gerawat stressed that face-to-face engagement in interior regions such as Bario is vital for effective communication.
He noted that the outreach allows residents to learn about opportunities in public service recruitment, educational scholarships, and technical training programmes.
Highlighting Bario’s unique cultural and natural heritage, Gerawat said the area holds significant potential that should be strengthened alongside human capital development.
He urged local youth to take advantage of opportunities offered through SPANS, scholarships from Yayasan Sarawak, and skills training at the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS).
“The government has provided a comprehensive platform, but success depends on the effort, discipline and determination of individuals in seizing these opportunities,” he said.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to expanding education access, improving employability, and strengthening rural development.
According to him, initiatives such as the SPANS outreach are designed to ensure that communities in remote areas are not left behind in Sarawak’s growth agenda.
The programme also brought together several agencies to provide direct exposure to career pathways, education schemes, and training opportunities.
This collaborative approach is intended to give residents a clearer understanding of how they can benefit from government support.
Observers note that the outreach reflects Sarawak’s broader policy of inclusive development, ensuring that rural communities are integrated into the state’s economic and social progress.
By encouraging youth participation, the government aims to build a stronger workforce that contributes to both local and state-wide advancement.
