KUCHING: The onus to train the workforce of the future for Sarawak is a responsibility that must be shared by all, including contractors.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this is to prepare the next generation and equip them with the necessary knowledge and experience to work in the construction industry.
“The contractors can enhance their staffing and human resource by having internship schemes with local universities. While the students gain experience, you can also enhance your human resources,” he said today (Feb 8).
He was officiating at the seminar on new initiatives to enhance Sarawak’s construction industry at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
Abang Johari said the construction industry today has embraced the use of technology and the subject is also taught to university students.
He said the government has a number of construction projects being planned which will be a boon to the construction industry.
“But the contractors must help themselves. If you feel that you have too many projects, just focus on the projects at hand. I can assure you that there are a number of other projects being planned under the Public Works Department,” he said.
The private sector is also developing Sarawak through regional development agencies whereby funds have been allocated by the government for the purpose of infrastructure development.
At the same time, Abang Johari said he is confident that the state government’s vision to become a developed and high-income state in 2030 can be achieved.
“I have tried my best to obtain more revenue through revenue re-engineering, we now have a financial model to develop Sarawak – and we need people to implement it,” he said.
He noted the current trend whereby talented professionals are returning to Sarawak to serve the state through the implementation of high-impact projects by the state government.
Abang Johari stressed that the construction industry must offer competitive pay to the workers to attract these professionals.
“Only then, these people will come back. There are a lot of talented Sarawakians out there. Our economy must be resilient, otherwise, they will not return,” he said.
