By Christine T
SIBU, Nov 14: The University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) is targeting greater financial resilience, operational efficiency and stronger governance practices by 2030 under the Sarawak government’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Transformation Programme.
Premier and UTS Pro-Chancellor Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the university had developed and submitted comprehensive strategies, key initiatives and financial projections under the Sarawak SOEs Transformation Programme, and pledged to implement them as outlined in its Transformation Playbook.
He said UTS participated this year in the Financial Self-Reliance and High-Performance Study for State Statutory Bodies and Government-Linked Companies, an initiative aimed at strengthening governance, institutional performance and financial sustainability among Sarawak State-owned entities.
“Through this, UTS aspires to achieve greater financial resilience, enhanced operational efficiency, improved productivity and stronger governance practices by 2030,” he said in his speech at the UTS’s 11th Convocation Ceremony here today, which was livestreamed by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
Abang Johari said the transformation of Sarawak’s SOEs was essential to achieving the State’s development aspirations, strengthening institutional performance and ensuring that public resources generated sustainable economic and social returns.
He stressed that SOEs should not be viewed merely as executors of government policies, but also as important drivers of economic growth, investment, infrastructure development, transportation, digital transformation and social progress.
“As Sarawak moves steadily towards realising its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) target of RM282 billion by 2030, the contribution of SOEs, including UTS, is not merely important but indispensable,” he said.
On UTS’ role as a State-owned institution, Abang Johari said the university had responsibilities beyond awarding academic qualifications, including serving as a centre for knowledge development, research, innovation and talent development.
He said UTS must continue producing graduates with strong academic foundations, practical competencies and professional values to meet evolving industry requirements.
He also emphasised the need for the university to strengthen its institutional capacity, governance and financial sustainability to support its long-term development.
Abang Johari said UTS must position itself as a strategic institution for nurturing future-ready talent, advancing research and innovation, and supporting Sarawak’s transition towards a high-income economy. — DayakDaily
