Link: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/07/18/sarawak-prepares-youths-to-lead-advanced-technology-industries-says-minister/
Written by Aliah Abdullah
KUCHING (July 18): Sarawak is preparing its youths to lead the state’s next phase of growth in advanced technology industries by equipping them with skills needed to support strategic future sectors.
According to State Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, the state is developing capabilities in sectors such as semiconductors, aerospace, hydrogen, satellite technology and the emerging space economy, all of which require advanced semiconductor technologies.
“Those are the areas that we are looking at and those are the areas that need SMD (surface-mount device) chips. So, that is why what we are doing today is very relevant,” he said in his closing remarks at the SMD IC Design Make-A-Thon 2026 at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak here.
Sagah stressed that Sarawak must develop a highly-skilled local workforce to succeed in these industries, adding that youths must be prepared not only to excel academically, but also to become adaptable, innovative and future-ready.
“Opportunities in advanced technology industries are growing rapidly, and Sarawak wants local talent to lead this growth,” he said.
On the SMD IC Design Make-A-Thon 2026, Sagah described it as a strategic talent development initiative that could provide early exposure to integrated circuit (IC) design, innovation and problem-solving skills essential for future industries.
“The programme also allows participants to tackle real-world challenges through critical thinking, collaboration and innovation, bringing learning beyond classrooms into practical application.
“The participation figures indicate that young Sarawakians are curious, ambitious and ready to embrace opportunities in advanced technology when given the right platform,” he said.
Among those present were State Financial Secretary who is also SMD Semiconductor chairman Dato Sri Wan Lizozman Wan Omar; SMD Semiconductor chief executive officer Shariman Jamil; and Swinburne Sarawak chairman Datuk Amar Jaul Samion.
