BY ALEXANDRA LORNA and NATASHA JEE
KUCHING: Sarawak’s economic development must be robust to attract highly-trained Sarawakians to return and work in the state.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state government is therefore focused on enhancing the state’s economic growth.
“When our economy reaches a certain level, well-trained Sarawakians will have the opportunity to return and work here, and receive good salaries and get a high income.
“With this, there will be no more issue of brain drain, otherwise they (Sarawakians) would seek employment opportunities overseas in pursuit of higher salaries,” he said.
He was speaking at the ‘Sunday Morning with Premier 2.0 Dialogue Session with Young Entrepreneurs on New Economy’ event held at Imperial Hotel here on today (July 9).
Abang Johari also emphasised the importance of language proficiency in curbing the brain drain.
“Because of technological advances in countries such as China, now they have a new device that requires us to command another language besides English, which is Mandarin.
“That is why, the late former chief minister, Tan Sri Adenan Satem had told us the need to recognise the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) which emphasises strong skills and understanding in Mathematics and Science subjects.
“That is why if you want to contain the brain drain, you must employ individuals with such qualifications in the private sector as it is more likely to offer higher salaries, thereby strengthening our industries,” he said.
Abang Johari, who is also Finance and New Economy Minister also expected that with the current Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project in the state, many Sarawakians would be attracted to return to the state.
“This is because they can be employed and contribute their knowledge on technology to Sarawak Metro, which is responsible for implementing the ART project,” he said.
Development initiatives implemented by the Sarawak government, he said, will create job opportunities and foster a conducive environment for local talents.
