KUCHING – Sarawak is intensifying efforts to strengthen its human capital through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), positioning the sector as a cornerstone of the state’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Speaking at the Sarawak Premier Golden Hand Awards 2025 held at the CIDB Sarawak Convention Centre, representatives of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg emphasised that the state is undergoing rapid economic transformation.
This shift requires a workforce that is not only technically proficient but also equipped with knowledge of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, green innovation and the digital economy.
“Sarawak is facing rapid changes driven by Artificial Intelligence, green technology and the digital economy. Therefore, the development of high-quality human capital will ensure our success in achieving the PCDS 2030 goal,” he said.
The Premier’s office highlighted that TVET is central to this agenda, with initiatives focusing on upgrading training facilities, enhancing teaching standards and forging stronger partnerships with industry players.
These measures are designed to ensure Sarawak’s workforce remains competitive and adaptable in a global market increasingly shaped by automation and sustainability.
The role of WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak (WSM-Sarawak) was also underscored at the event. Datuk Francis Harden noted that the programme identifies and nurtures talent from an early stage, preparing students to excel in national and international competitions.
He commended Sarawakian participants who have achieved recognition abroad, stating: “This success shows that TVET is the right choice for continuing education, quality and can produce world-class skills.”
The awards ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements in WorldSkills Malaysia Sarawak Phase 4 2025, with recognition given to participants and institutions that demonstrated exceptional skill.
Among the winners was a student from Betong Vocational College who secured the Premier Gold Hand Award in the Additive Manufacturing category, reflecting the growing strength of Sarawak’s vocational training ecosystem.
The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Programmes such as the Academy in Industry (ADI) were cited as vital in bridging the gap between education and employment.
ADI offers participants industry-level training, certification and job placements, while companies benefit from tax incentives and access to skilled workers.
Sarawak’s broader strategy aligns with its PCDS 2030 blueprint, which aims to build a resilient, ethical and future-ready workforce.
According to the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, the state is committed to producing graduates who can adapt to evolving industrial demands while contributing meaningfully to society.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including CIDB Malaysia Chairman and Tanjung Manis MP Dato Ir Yusuf Abdul Wahab, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Office Jefferson Jamiat, Deputy Minister for Energy and Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, and Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Skills Development Datu Adana Jed. Their presence underscored the government’s commitment to advancing Sarawak’s skills agenda.
With TVET at the forefront, Sarawak is positioning itself to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global economy, ensuring that its workforce is prepared to support sustainable growth and achieve the ambitious goals set under PCDS 2030.
