By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Nov 12: The Malay community must move beyond traditional agriculture and fishing practices by embracing modern technology and equipping its younger generation with the skills to transform these sectors and break the cycle of poverty.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said both sectors must embrace modernisation to improve the Malay community’s economic standing.
“Education is the only way for us to eradicate poverty. The Malays are often associated with the agricultural and fishing sectors.
“These are the two sectors that we must modernise by harnessing the capabilities of our Malay children so that they can break the poverty cycle and elevate the community’s standing to be on par with others,” he said in his speech during the opening of Wisma Melayu Sarawak here last night (Nov 11).
In this regard, Abang Johari said the Sarawak government had introduced the Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) for all Sarawakians, regardless of race, to help them pursue higher education and realise their aspirations.
He acknowledged that competition in higher education was inevitable, but said Malay youths must rise to the challenge and demonstrate their ability to excel in the changing economic landscape.
He said Sarawak’s renewable energy, abundant water resources and free education policy had made it an attractive destination for global investors, who recognised the potential of its local talent.
“This means Sarawakians can compete internationally in terms of their earning potential,” he said.
Abang Johari added that young Malays must continue acquiring the latest knowledge and skills as Sarawak seeks to diversify its economy beyond the digital sector into emerging fields such as the space economy.
He hoped Wisma Melayu Sarawak would serve as a platform for young Malays to exchange ideas, shape their future and preserve their heritage while advancing the community’s standing. — DayakDaily
