In order to become self-sufficient in food production, Sarawak aims to transform its agricultural sector and understands that building a talented workforce is key to driving future agricultural developments.
To ensure greater participation in the agricultural sector, the state’s plan includes providing financial support, expanding training programs, and encouraging entrepreneurship, enabling more graduates to enter and contribute to the industry.
Enhancing TVET Enrolment through Specialized Programs
Sarawak is introducing focused programs to promote TVET education as an attractive career choice, driven by the growing need for skilled agricultural workers.
The Junior TVET Programme, one of the key initiatives, encourages young individuals to take up vocational training in agriculture, offering practical knowledge in areas like agricultural technology, crop cultivation, animal care, and agribusiness.
The state aims to elevate the status of TVET by challenging stereotypes and emphasizing its potential for high-paying, fulfilling careers in agriculture, hoping to boost enrolment and attract more youth to agricultural programs
Incentives and Financial Support for TVET Students
Financial support plays a crucial role in attracting youth to TVET programs.
Sarawak has allocated significant funds, such as RM376.72 million in its 2025 budget, to boost agricultural infrastructure and support education for TVET students in agriculture.
Additionally, the state offers scholarships, stipends, and financial assistance, helping to remove financial barriers and allowing students to focus on developing critical skills in agriculture.
Smart Agriculture: Drawing the Digital Generation to the Field
Sarawak’s Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 plays a significant role in attracting youth to TVET programs focused on agriculture.
The blueprint highlights the role of digital technologies in agriculture, such as smart farming, drones, big data, and automated machinery, to boost productivity and sustainability.
By demonstrating the role of technology in modernizing agriculture, Sarawak is appealing to young, tech-savvy individuals eager to innovate and explore entrepreneurial opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Support Networks for Agricultural Entrepreneurs
Sarawak is committed to promoting agricultural entrepreneurship as a career option for TVET graduates, which aligns with the state’s plan to reduce the dependence on food imports for the next ten years.
To support young entrepreneurs, the state has created programs such as TEGAS Digital Village and the Digital Innovation Hub, which offer mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities for those wanting to start businesses in the agricultural sector.
To conclude, Sarawak’s strategy for drawing more youth into TVET programs in agriculture and ensuring they contribute to the sector after graduation is a well-rounded plan aimed at cultivating a sustainable and skilled agricultural workforce.
Through education, financial incentives, technology integration, and entrepreneurial support, Sarawak is setting the stage for a new generation of agricultural leaders.
By focusing on innovation, smart farming, and business development, the state is setting itself up as a key player in nurturing agricultural talent and ensuring long-term success.
References:
- https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2275313
- https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/1020205/govt-aims-fortify-tvet-agriculture-ensure-food-security-mohamad-sabu
- https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/zahid-kkdw-12-ministries-to-empower-youth-entrepreneurship-programmes-HD10640250
- https://premierdept.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/9393/UKAS
- https://www.sma.gov.my/web/attachment/show/?docid=amI0Y1FsaWo5MFp6ZWdwMG5rL242UT09OjrW9vijjeXQPzhr0B0hGIo7
- https://www.facebook.com/tegastf/
