Repok rep proposes TVET institution in Sarikei to boost skilled workforce
Huang says the initiative is crucial to producing a highly skilled workforce to support Sarawak's industrial growth, particularly in the central zone. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 22): Repok assemblyman Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii has proposed the development of a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution on government land in Sungai Merudu, Sarikei.
He said the initiative is crucial to producing a highly skilled workforce to support Sarawak's industrial growth, particularly in the central zone.
Huang, who is also federal Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Sustainability, stressed the importance of creating alternative education pathways for youths and aligning them with current skills training needs.
'This area has great potential for the development of a fully equipped TVET institution or polytechnic,' he said, referring to the government land located at Lot 365, Block 59 in Sarikei Land District.
'I hope the proposal will receive the ministry's support to deliver long-term benefits for our younger generation,' said Huang in his Motion of Appreciation on the Speech by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
He also highlighted several pressing issues affecting his constituents, beginning with the growing demand for affordable housing in Sarikei.
'The need for affordable homes is increasingly urgent. We must ensure no group is left behind in accessing comfortable and reasonably priced home,' he said.
He further raised concerns about insufficient street lighting in areas such as at Jalan Hua Ee and Sungai Pasi and called for improved lighting infrastructure to enhance public safety.
On economic development, Huang proposed the establishment of a Mini Industrial Park in Sarikei to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and generate job opportunities for youths and residents.
To meet the needs of the growing population, Huang called for the construction of a larger convention centre, noting that the current community hall can only accommodate about 1,000 people.
'This limits our ability to organise large-scale programmes that benefit the wider community,' he said.
He also urged the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) to expedite the SMART Rural Telecommunication Tower initiative to improve internet access in rural and remote areas.
Lastly, he appealed for the provision of treated water to remote communities in Ulu Sungai Rusa, including eight longhouses and a church in Sungai Mawang and Sungai Kuap areas.
'Treated water supply is a basic right that should be available to all citizens regardless of their location,' he said.
'We hope the long-delayed project can proceed soon to uplift the quality of life in Sarikei'. DUN Huang Tiong Sii Sarikei TVET
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