Sarawak exploring new disciplines to cope with Industry 4.0
KUCHING: The Sarawak government is exploring new disciplines as it strives to cope with Industry 4.0, said Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said Sarawak’s mission now is to produce those capable of handling new technologies.
“We are rich in natural resources and if we can add value to our resources, of course it will strengthen our economic activities, which then will uplift our standard of living,” he said during the presentation of Yayasan Sarawak awards to outstanding students here yesterday.
Abang Johari, who is also foundation chairman, pledged it would continue to give scholarships to those wishing to pursue their master’s degrees overseas in certain disciplines such as new technology.
He pointed out that blockchain is another new discipline that students from Sarawak should go into.
“As you all know, we are now doing research to produce hydrogen as we try to use hydrogen as a source of energy. We cannot afford to rely only on fossil fuels. So we also want to rely on hydrogen, which can be extracted from water. Just imagine cars being run by hydrogen from the water,” he said.
“At the moment, we are doing research with Sarawak Energy and this is the new technology that we are tapping, which is in line with the move to brace for the 4.0 revolution.”
Since its inception, he said Yayasan Sarawak has produced many intellectuals and many beneficiaries have done their part.
For those who have received loans from the foundation, Abang Johari advised them to repay the loans so that the next generation of students can also pursue their education.
For this year, the foundation will present awards to 1,432 students from across Sarawak, along with other bursaries and loans.
Abang Johari also launched the Yayasan Sarawak Student App during the event.