As Sarawak accelerates its development goals under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), the demand for a future-ready workforce is becoming more urgent than ever. With billions invested in infrastructure and technology, one fundamental element remains critical to success people. Specifically, how they perform, grow, and contribute to the economy. This is where the Indeks Prestasi Utama Kerjaya (IPUK), or Career Key Performance Index, plays a vital role.
Understanding the Career KPI (IPUK)
The Indeks Prestasi Utama Kerjaya is a performance metric system designed to track, evaluate, and guide the career progress of individuals particularly graduates and young professionals. It reflects more than just job placements; it considers how well individuals adapt to industry demands, grow their skills, and contribute productively within their sectors. In essence, it serves as a compass for employability, professional development, and long-term workforce sustainability.
In Sarawak’s context, the IPUK is being shaped by ambitious economic and social policies that prioritise results-driven outcomes. It aligns closely with the Results-Based Budgeting (RBB) system already embraced by state initiatives to ensure that public programmes deliver measurable impact not just expenditure.
The Problem: Skilled Talent Gaps Amid Economic Ambitions
Despite Sarawak’s strong economic outlook—highlighted by RM14.6 billion in construction activities in 2023 and RM116 billion in investments over five (5) years – many local graduates still face underemployment or job mismatches. According to economist Datuk Dr Madeline Berma, while Sarawak is poised to become a high-income state by 2030, the pace of infrastructure and technological development may outstrip the availability of suitably skilled workers.
This is further complicated by Sarawak’s impending shift into an “aged region” by 2028. Without urgent action, the mismatch between job market needs and available talent could hinder productivity and slow down economic growth. Moreover, Premier Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg has stressed the need for skilled workers to avoid the middle-income trap, where economies stagnate due to a lack of innovation and human capital development.
The Solution: GETS-WRP as a Model for Career KPI Implementation
To address this challenge, the Sarawak government has introduced the Graduates Enhancement Training Sarawak–Work Readiness Programme (GETS-WRP). Launched in March 2025, this initiative offers structured, sector-specific training in key areas such as the digital economy, energy, finance, and government-linked industries. But more importantly, it introduces a performance-oriented framework for evaluating employability essentially, a living example of how the Career KPI can be applied.
According to Joseph Lim, CEO of the Sarawak Centre of Performance Excellence (SCOPE), GETS-WRP goes beyond basic training. “This initiative is not just about training but about creating a results driven workforce,” he explained. Through tracked learning outcomes, performance evaluations, and real-world exposure, graduates are measured on their readiness to join and thrive in the workforce.
The program also collaborates with GLCs, statutory bodies, and private firms to ensure participants gain hands-on experience, leadership and communication skills, and career coaching. Platforms like Jobstreet.com and PERKESO MyFutureJobs are used to support job matching, reinforcing the KPI model with tangible placement outcomes.
Real Impact: From Training to Transformation
GETS-WRP has already begun shaping the performance mindset of graduates. From critical thinking to emotional intelligence, the program teaches not only what to learn but how to apply it measurable through internships, project deliverables, and professional networking engagements.
Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari highlighted that such training not only prepares graduates for employment but also empowers them to start their own ventures. “This is not just about employment but about creating innovators and entrepreneurs who will drive Sarawak’s economy forward,” he said.
Looking Forward: Expanding the KPI Culture
Sarawak’s long-term development depends not just on infrastructure or investment, but on embedding a performance driven culture across all layers of workforce. GETS-WRP represents a scalable model for how Career KPIs can be applied state-wide. If adopted widely through educational institutions, SMEs, and civil service departments it could become a cornerstone for sustainable growth and social mobility.
As Sarawak prepares to enter its next economic phase, the importance of monitoring and enhancing individual career outcomes cannot be overstated. The Indeks Prestasi Utama Kerjaya, supported by initiatives like GETS-WRP, could be the key to unlocking the state’s full human capital potential ensuring no talent is left behind.
Reference
Ahmad, R. (2025, March 27). GETS-WRP launches to boost Sarawakians’ employability – TVS. TVS. https://www.tvsarawak.my/2025/03/27/gets-wrp-launches-to-boost-sarawakians-employability/
BP Editor 10. (2025, February 15). Premier: Boosting state economy key to job creation, bringing Sarawakian talent home. Borneo Post Online. https://www.theborneopost.com/2025/02/15/premier-boosting-state-economy-key-to-job-creation-bringing-sarawakian-talent-home/
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Marlinda Mardzuki. (2025, January 22). Sarawak perlu tenaga kerja berkemahiran tinggi, elak terperangkap dalam ekonomi berpendapatan sederhana: Premier. Utusanborneo.com.my. https://www.utusanborneo.com.my/2025/01/22/sarawak-perlu-tenaga-kerja-berkemahiran-tinggi-elak-terperangkap-dalam-ekonomi
