SIBU: Employers, particularly those in the automobile repair industry, have been urged to step up efforts to highlight the sector’s potential as well as career opportunities to help address the ongoing shortage of skilled workers.
Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh said this effort should focus on young people, raising awareness of the benefits that come with technical skills.
“Many young people may not realise that this industry is not only stable and in high demand but also offers significant career growth potential in today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape,” he said.
Wong made these remarks at the Gala Dinner of the Installation Ceremony for the Federation of Automobile Workshop Owners Association of Malaysia (FAWOAM) Executive Committee for the 13th Term (2024 – 2026), the Sibu Automobile Repairer Association (SARA) Executive Committee for the 23rd Term (2024 – 2025), the SARA 45th Anniversary Celebration, and the National Electric Vehicle Forum and Workshop here Saturday (Nov 9).
He added that with supportive government policies, the reliance on foreign labour could gradually be reduced in favour of fostering more skilled local technicians, strengthening the competitiveness of the entire industry.
“This approach would not only address the labour shortage but also support the industry’s sustainable development, contributing more significantly to both the national and local economies,” he said.
Wong highlighted that the global automotive industry is evolving rapidly, particularly with the rise of electric and smart vehicles, which are gradually shifting the focus from traditional mechanical repair skills to those in electronic and digital technologies.
“This has created both challenges and unprecedented opportunities for the motor repair sector, particularly in training technical talent, which is crucial to the industry’s long-term development and competitiveness,” he said.
He praised the Sarawak government’s forward-looking approach in actively promoting technical training and development.
By partnering with educational institutions, technical training centres, and industry associations, the government has established specialised programmes to help technicians acquire the latest skills in motor repair, he said.
“For example, the Sarawak Skills Development Centre (Sarawak Skills) is collaborating with the Sibu Vehicle Repair Industry Association (SARA) to set up an automotive technology academy in Sibu. Preparations are well underway, and the academy is expected to be completed soon.”
Wong believes this academy will greatly enhance the repair skills of local technicians and boost their competitiveness in the global market.
He also urged business owners and technicians to invest in employee training and align with government policies to ensure the motor repair industry remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
“Only by continuously upgrading skills can the industry remain competitive in an increasingly challenging market, ensuring long-term success and growth,” he said.
“We must remember that times are changing, and technology is advancing at a rapid pace. Products are becoming more sophisticated and diverse, and we must keep up by discarding outdated knowledge and embracing new skills. Only by adapting can we stay relevant,” he added.
Wong emphasised that the automobile repair industry must be proactive in acquiring the latest technological knowledge and maintain a strong commitment to learning.
“Breaking away from traditional methods is essential to maintaining stability in the industry and avoiding obsolescence in these advancing times,” he said.
Also present were the general manager of the Sarawak Automotive and Welding Institute (AWISAR) Jaidil Yakop and SARA and FAWOAM chairman Penghulu Teo Nging Poh.
