BINTULU: A skilled and semi-skilled workforce is expected to be developed through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) by 2030.
Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD) Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who announced this, referred to a study conducted by Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) in 2014, which estimated that over one million new jobs will be created in Sarawak, with more than 600,000 of these roles comprising skilled and semi-skilled positions.
“We are very optimistic about the future of TVlET as it will equip the workforce with skills in rapidly developing technologies, including coding, cybersecurity, data management, and digital marketing,” he said.
He was officiating at the seminar on ‘Industry-Academia 2024: A Road to TVET Education in Digitalisation and Green Technology Industries in Sarawak’, co-organised by MEITD, Sarawak Skills, and the Advanced Technology Training Centre (ADTEC) Bintulu at Goldenbay Hotel today.
Sagah added that digital skills are crucial in a job market increasingly reliant on digital solutions, while also ensuring that Sarawak’s industries remain competitive on the international stage.
He stressed the significant potential for growth in the green economy, as countries worldwide strive to achieve sustainability goals and tackle climate change.
“This is a unique opportunity for our TVET programmes to focus on green economy skills such as renewable energy technology, sustainable agriculture, and waste management.
“By training the workforce in these areas, we are not only supporting economic growth but also ensuring the well-being of our planet,” he added.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between educational institutions like Sarawak Skills and ADTEC Bintulu, along with industry players and government agencies.
Such partnerships, he asserted, would ensure that the curriculum provided remains relevant to the demands of the current and future job market.
“Initiatives such as industrial training programmes and work-based learning will help bridge the gap between education and employment.
“This gives students the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience in the real world,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders to continue collaborating to build a robust educational framework that supports the state’s economic growth.
