KOTA SAMARAHAN: The TVET MyKomoditi programme serves as an important bridge between education and industry, young talent and career opportunities, in addition to connecting the potential of youths with the reality of the future.

Sarawak Skills Executive Director Hallman Sabri said that the agri-commodity sector is no longer a traditional sector, but has undergone a major transformation through the use of modern technology, automation, product innovation and sustainable approaches.

Therefore, he said that this programme aims to provide participants with direct information on critical workforce needs in the agri-commodity sector.

"This industry requires not only manpower, but a workforce that is skilled, knowledgeable and ready to adapt to new technology," he said when speaking at the programme's opening ceremony at the Sarawak State Plantation Society (PPNS), here, on Monday.

He added that the programme also highlighted various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) pathways available through training agencies and institutions.

He said that TVET is currently no longer a second choice but instead a strategic choice to build a stable, relevant and high-value career.

In addition, Hallman said the programme also aims to change the public's perception that the agri-commodity sector is not just a field job, but a professional field that offers various roles including technical, management, research and entrepreneurship.

"We want to provide exposure to the advantages of this sector, including income potential, career stability and opportunities to be involved in an industry that is the backbone of the country's economy," he said.

Throughout the programme, various activities were held including talk sessions, industry partnerships, agency and company exhibitions, chocolate making demonstrations, local product sales and futsal competitions.

At the same ceremony, a total of 35 recipients from groups two and three of the Sarawak Zone Harvesting Specialist pilot programme received their respective certificates.

Hallman said the pilot programme, a collaboration between Sarawak Skills, IMPAC and industry partners, had trained a total of 50 youths last year.

There was also an exchange of Memorandums of Agreement (MoA) between IMPAC and several institutions and agencies including Sarawak Skills to strengthen the nation’s TVET ecosystem.

Also present was Minister of Plantations and Commodities Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad. -UKASnews