Sarawak Needs Highly Skilled, Innovative Workforce To Avoid Middle Income Trap - Abang Jo

KUCHING, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- Sarawak needs highly skilled and innovative workforce to drive its economy forward and avoid the middle-income trap.

Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said in order to achieve this, the state will focus on investing in education and skills development.

“We (Sarawak) do not want to be trapped in a middle-income economy, we must move forward. To do so, we need the right skills and tools (technology) to progress…we must also be innovative.

“The workforce must possess skills that are in demand and command high wages. That is why Sarawak will implement program to train our workforce in line with current trends, especially in the fields of technical, scientific and financial disciplines.”

He said this in his speech at the launch of the Graduates Enhancement Training Sarawak - Work Readiness Programme (GETS-WRP) here today.

GETS-WRP is a 12-month on-the-job training programme aimed at helping graduates, particularly those from Sarawak to acquire practical skills in various industries.

The programme is designed to further equip Sarawakian graduates with the relevant skills, knowledge, and work experience needed to transition successfully into the workforce.

With a total budget of RM23 million for 1,000 interns and graduates in 2025, the programme reflects the State Government's commitment to youth development and workforce readiness, preparing graduates for both local and global opportunities.

Interns will receive a monthly allowance of RM1,500 during the programme.

-- BERNAMA