More than 10,000 come to SL1M programme on first day
The state-level 1Malaysia Training Scheme ( SL1M) Open Interview Programme has received very encouraging response with 10,000 job seekers and graduates present during the first day yesterday.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Solidarity Dato Sri Michael Manyin said the two- day programme held at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak ( Unimas) here saw throngs of visitors coming as early as 7.30am.
Speaking at a press conference after launching the programme, in representing Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg, he said the 10,000 visitors ranged from Primary 6 pupils to PhD degree holders.
“This is something very encouraging,” he said and hoped that through SL1M, more Sarawakian youths will become successful after receiving training from companies that have selected them.
He also believed that through SL1M, the number of unemployed graduates nationwide which is currently estimated around 280,000 would be reduced.
“If we do not focus on this group (unemployed), they might become social problems to the country.
“In the past, Malaysian youths were regarded as liabilities but today, this policy has changed. They are now regarded as assets of the country and are leaders of tomorrow,” he said.
Meanwhile, SL1M head of secretariat Norashikin Ismail said SL1M would consider extending the number of days to hold the open interview programme in the state and to hold the event on weekends to enable more job seekers and graduates to attend.
“The objective of SL1M’s open interview is to provide opportunities to unemployed graduates. That is why we hold the programme on weekdays.
“Nevertheless, we will consider extending the programme from two to three days in the future.”
On the state- level SL1M, Norashikin said 100 companies are participating in the programme offering around 13,000 job vacancies and training opportunities.
Unimas vice- chancellor Prof Dato Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi and its deputy vice- chancellor ( Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof Mohd Fadzil Abdul Rahman were also present at the press conference.