Sarikei: The Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS) and the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) today inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to form a strategic partnership focused on enhancing local talent development.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, TEGAS chairman Datuk Len Talif Salleh announced that the MoU will facilitate the execution of seven high-impact programmes aimed at nurturing the skills and potential of Sarawak's youth and workforce. These programmes encompass digital talent development, productivity enhancement, entrepreneurship initiatives, innovation and technology, skills development through upskilling and reskilling, mentorship programmes, and productivity awareness.

Datuk Len Talif, who serves as Sarawak Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, stated that the initiative is in line with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030). This strategy highlights human capital and local talent development as essential components for driving economic growth and enhancing social well-being in the state.

At the Randau Akademi Dalam Industri (ADI) programme held at the Sarikei Civic Centre, Len Talif emphasized the importance of investing in the development of young people's minds, skills, and character. This investment aims to prepare them to become economic drivers and future leaders. He revealed Sarawak's goal to achieve a 30 per cent skilled workforce, roughly amounting to 500,000 skilled workers, with a focus on high-value sectors such as renewable energy, aerospace, the digital economy, and high-tech manufacturing.

The ADI programme, as outlined by Len Talif, features exhibitions on career opportunities, entrepreneurship, and government services. These exhibitions unite various agencies and industry stakeholders to provide youth and the public with direct access to information regarding job opportunities, skills training, entrepreneurial financing, and government support services.