KUCHING: Sarawak is progressing steadily towards achieving the goal of 10,000 registered professionals under the Malaysian Board of Technologists (MBOT) by 2025, propelling the state’s economic growth to new heights.
Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, the Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, disclosed that as of September, Sarawak boasted 7,039 registered professional technologists and technicians.
“The Sarawak government places significant importance on fostering local talent to reduce reliance on foreign labour. We are collaborating with the Association of Professional Technicians and Technologists (APTT) and relevant agencies to realize this objective.
“This endeavour is crucial because continuous upskilling enables us to adapt to changes, enhance productivity, and maintain a competitive edge in the global market,” he articulated.
These statements were made during the inauguration of the Fifth Edition of the Industry Continuous Professional Development (iCPD) Program – Kuching Series, which took place at the Imperial Hotel today (Oct 23).
He further emphasised that to reach this target, the Sarawak government concentrates on talent development in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), with workers holding at least the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM).
“This strategy not only boosts workforce efficiency but also strives for incremental wage hikes to cater to the evolving demands of the labour market.
“We are also committed to ensuring that the produced workforce remains competitive and resilient as Sarawak advances towards becoming an advanced economy and high-income region by 2030.
“To accomplish this, we aim to double the economy from RM136 billion in 2019 to RM282 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of six to eight per cent as delineated in the Sarawak Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS),” he supplemented.
His ministry also strives to build a high-value knowledge economy driven by a proficient workforce, to achieve 30 per cent skilled workers to address future needs.
“To further bolster Sarawak’s economy, the state government is spearheading the transition towards a digital economy, particularly in the manufacturing sector, by harnessing new technologies in alignment with Industry 4.0.
“Hence, with the cooperation of training institutions, academia, and industry, we are actively addressing the widening skills gap by instigating continuous learning programs to upskill and reskill workers in today’s uncertain environment,” he underlined.
He also highlighted that the iCPD program symbolizes the united commitment of the Sarawak government to cultivate a skilled workforce and propel sustainable economic growth.
“Moreover, we have received an encouraging response with over 500 participants in the previous four programs in Miri, Lawas, Bintulu, and Sibu, surpassing our expectations.
“This indicates a strong interest among our people in professional development, showcasing their dedication to growth across various sectors.
“Therefore, I am delighted to announce the continuation of the iCPD next year and eagerly anticipate increased industry and community participation,” he declared.
He also urged all stakeholders to seize this opportunity to strive for excellence in their respective domains and urged companies in the state to invest in workforce development.
During the same event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD) and the Malaysian Productivity Corporation (MPC), underscoring the Sarawak government’s commitment to fortifying talent development and preparing a competitive future workforce.
