By Nigel Edgar
KUCHING, Dec 6: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg today proposed that Sarawak Skills Development Centre (PPKS) offer a Diploma in Smart Agriculture course to complement the state’s efforts to modernise its agricultural sector.
He said as the state was now bracing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) and also shifting towards a digital economy, it was only appropriate for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres to set up accredited courses in line with the state’s transformation.
“I urge PPKS to set up a course that is important for Sarawak because we are in the midst of transforming our agro-based industry. Therefore, I urge PPKS to set up a Diploma in Smart Agriculture,” Abang Johari said at the convocation ceremony of PPKS/i-Cats at Borneo Convention Centre (BCCK) this morning.
He believed graduates from such a course would be able to help prosper the state’s agricultural sector.
“This means production from our agricultural sector by using the latest technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), can be improved and also strengthen the sector, particularly for the rural areas,” said Abang Johari.
He also encouraged TVET centres to embrace the latest technologies in their teachings and courses in order to produce highly skilled students who could help develop the state.
Abang Johari also spoke of the need to master the English Language to gain knowledge and to stay competitive in the workplace.
“English has been the language of knowledge such as science, medical and now the intermediary language for the digital economy and Industry 4.0.
“We understand that Bahasa Melayu is the country’s official language. Not neglecting that, mastering other languages, especially in Sarawak, would give you (graduates) an extra edge and higher marketability,” he said. — DayakDaily
