KUCHING: Sarawak requires more experts in the field of engineering, chemistry, and biology as it explores the new economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he has discussed with Politeknik Kuching Sarawak (PKS) on the needs of having experts in these fields to in order to produce enough workforce for the new industries.
“These are among the important sectors we focus on in Sarawak in line with the new economy,” he said during the second session of PKS 30th anniversary convocation ceremony today.
In the field of engineering, Abang Johari said it was crucial to have a workforce that are experts in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering.
“Secondly, we emphasise the field of biochemistry. Biochemistry is the basis for us to produce experts in the field of chemistry and biology.
“We have Sarawak Biodiversity Centre as well as the Infectious Disease Centre (SIDS), and hence we need experts in the field of biochemistry.
“In addition, we are also setting up a Petrochemistry Hub in Bintulu, thus this even requires more experts in gas chemistry as we want to produce hydrogen from water and gas resources,” he pointed out.
He added Sarawak has a hydro dam to produce hydro energy and the abundance of water resources in which water can be split into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis, while at the state’s dam, solar energy can be produced through solar panels.
“This means that we are able to produce renewable energy, but what is needed is the technology and the experts in these fields,” he stressed.
He also said as Sarawak is heading towards a green economy that is based on renewable energy, it also needs more experts in the field of hydrogen as well,” he said.
“Apart from that, Sarawak is looking at material science. This is because in material science, its composites can be created through gases including methanol, ammonia, and others.
“And these materials can be used to produce composite of which is a new material and this is very much demanded by the world today in the circular economy,” he said.
He added Sarawak emphasis on material science because the composite can be used as a material in many industries including the aviation industry.
“Hence, with all these, Sarawak will be a one of the important hubs in the new economy,” said Abang Johari.
Also present were Polytechnic and Community College Education Department director (Examination and Evaluation Division) Dr Norhayati Ibrahim and PKS director Hikmatullah Hajid Ahmad Khan.
