OPENING OF THE NEW ADMINISTRATION BLOCK OF FOREST TRAINING SCHOOL SARAWAK

The new Administration Block of the Forest Training School at Semenggoh Sarawak was officially declared open by Y.B. Datuk Anifah Haji Aman, Deputy Minister of Primary Industries Malaysia on 19 August 2002.

The block, costing RM1.5 million, houses the administrative office, a mini theater, a library, a meeting room, a computer laboratory, a canteen and a botanical garden. It represents Phase One of the development of the School. Under Phase Two of the project, the Ministry of Primary Industries has approved an allocation of RM2.5 million to build four lecture rooms, two laboratories, a gymnasium and a laundry room.

During the ceremony, Y.B. Datuk Anifah stated that the process of providing on-the-job training to workers should be given serious attention by all sectors. A new training concept, known as the Dual-System, should be fostered to improve the skills of workers. Experience shows that training related to skills given in lecture rooms are no longer sufficient and practical. As such on-the-job training in workplaces need to be intensified. The development of a skilled work force is an area that needs to be given high priority as the Nation moves towards achieving Vision 2020.

Y.B. Datuk Anifah stressed that it is the objective of the Government to produce skilled and knowledgeable workers in all industries, the service sector as well as the civil service. In the new millennium, technical training is an important element that equips people to face changes brought about by globalisation effectively. He advised forestry staff to continue providing quality and effective services to the public and at the same time contribute to the development of the country's economy.

Among those present at the opening ceremony were Y.B. Alfred Yap Chin Loi, Assistant Minister of Planning and Resource Management, Y.B. Dr. Jerip Susil, State Assemblyman for Bengoh, Mr. Cheong Ek Choon, Director of Forests, Sarawak, the Secretary-General and other officers of Ministry of Primary Industries Malaysia and senior officers of the Forest Department Sarawak and of other agencies under this Ministry.