Students need greater exposure to technical careers, says Sarawak JKR director

KUCHING (Sept 23): Many students at higher education institutions (IPTs) remain unfamiliar with the working environments they will eventually enter, making greater engagement between students, technical professionals and industry essential, said Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) director Dr Cassidy Morris.

He said the National Technical Profession Day (HPTN) 2026 would provide a platform for students to gain a better understanding of how their academic knowledge could be applied in the workplace.

“I also encourage educational institutions and industry partners to make use of HPTN 2026 to engage the younger generation with technical fields. Students need to gain an understanding of the actual nature of the work, study pathways and the skills required.

“Meeting the professionals can help them see their potential and opportunities to contribute to the country’s development,” he said in his speech during the HPTN 2026 launching ceremony at Sheraton Hotel here.

Morris said the programme also aimed to recognise members of the technical profession while encouraging young people to pursue careers in technical fields.

“In addition, we want to make the programme a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences and best practices, strengthening networks and cooperation between the government, professional bodies, educational institutions, industry and the community, and increasing public understanding of the role of the technical profession.

“At the same time, this participation is expected to encourage the younger generation to explore technical fields and to produce more skilled personnel who can contribute to the country’s development,” he said.

Held under the theme ‘Profesion Teknikal Pemacu Kelestarian’, HPTN 2026 will take place at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Dec 1 and 2.

The programme will feature 238 booths showcasing various areas of technology and technical expertise, including green technology, electrical and electronic technology, information and communication technology, chemical technology, atmospheric science and environmental technology, building and construction technology, manufacturing and industrial technology, biotechnology, agriculture-based technology, transport and logistics, marine technology, and surveying and geomatics technology.

higher education institutions lead onsite students technical careers