By Ts. Dr. Hj. Muhammad Khusairy Bin Capt. Hj. Bakri
The reasons behind the reluctance of many Sarawakians to return home are multifaceted and complex. Sarawak, a state renowned for its diverse cultural heritage, vast natural resources, and promising economic prospects, still grapples with the task of enticing its diaspora to come back to their homeland. Considering the Deputy Premier’s recent appeal for Sarawakian talents to return and play a role in regional development, it appears that a significant number of Sarawakians are still uncertain about taking action. This hesitancy arises from an intricate interplay of economic, social, cultural, and political factors, which this article will thoroughly examine, raising the question of whether sufficient efforts are being made to enhance Sarawak’s appeal as a place to reside and work.
A major obstacle for Sarawakians contemplating a return to their homeland is the constrained job market. Although Sarawak has experienced growth in sectors like energy and agriculture, the range of job opportunities available is still relatively limited. Professionals with advanced skills, particularly in areas such as technology, finance, and specialized engineering, frequently encounter difficulties in obtaining positions that align with their qualifications and career goals. The wage disparities between Sarawak and more developed regions or countries pose a significant challenge. According to a study conducted in 2020 by Bank Negara Malaysia, it was found that the average monthly salary in Sarawak is considerably lower compared to states like Selangor or international locations like Singapore and Australia. For many residents of Sarawak, the idea of accepting reduced salaries, even with the potential benefit of a lower cost of living, is a challenging proposition.
Another important factor to consider is the potential for career advancement. In urban areas or overseas, professionals frequently have greater chances for career advancement, skill enhancement, and professional development. Due to the slower pace of development and the absence of corporate headquarters or major industry hubs in Sarawak, ambitious professionals may find it challenging to envision a clear path for their career progression. Factors that contribute to the quality of life, such as education and healthcare, are crucial considerations in the decision-making process. Although Sarawak has made significant progress in enhancing these sectors, they still fall behind more advanced regions. Based on a report released in 2021 by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, it has been observed that healthcare facilities in rural Sarawak are comparatively less equipped than those in urban areas. Similarly, educational institutions in smaller towns may not provide the same level of opportunities and facilities as those found in larger cities, although they are continuously improving. Access to state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure is crucial for numerous professionals, especially those working in the fields of technology and research. The slower adoption of the latest technologies in Sarawak and the limited presence of high-tech industries can pose a significant drawback. For example, the presence of high-speed internet and state-of-the-art research facilities is still lagging behind international benchmarks, which may deter tech-savvy professionals and researchers.
Lifestyle preferences play a vital role. A significant number of Sarawakians who have resided overseas or in major Malaysian cities have become accustomed to a fast-paced, urban lifestyle. Returning to Sarawak, where the pace of life is generally slower and more rural, may require a notable period of adaptation. The disparity in lifestyle may discourage individuals who are drawn to the conveniences and liveliness of city settings. The significance of social and family networks established abroad or in different regions of Malaysia should not be overlooked. The strong emotional and social connections that develop over extended periods, often spanning years or even decades, can create a sense of trepidation when considering the prospect of relocating and returning to Sarawak. For many individuals, the idea of parting ways with their friends, colleagues, and established communities can be a significant factor that discourages them. Cultural adjustments also have a significant impact. Individuals from Sarawak who have spent significant time living in foreign countries may encounter difficulties when attempting to reintegrate into the local customs and social norms. The variations in work culture, social interactions, and daily living can lead to a feeling of cultural dissonance, which can diminish the appeal of returning home.
Returning to Sarawak can be a challenging experience when it comes to dealing with the bureaucratic and administrative processes. Obstacles like acquiring required permits, navigating local regulations, and encountering inefficiencies in public services can greatly discourage progress. According to the World Bank’s 2020 Ease of Doing Business report, Malaysia, including Sarawak, should focus on enhancing regulatory efficiency and streamlining business start-up processes to become more appealing to both returnees and investors. Political stability is a crucial element that must be taken into account. Factors such as local governance, corruption, and political uncertainties can have a significant impact on the decision to return. The Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International has revealed different levels of perceived corruption in Malaysia, potentially impacting trust in local governance. Establishing a stable and transparent political environment is crucial to attracting Sarawakians back.
The rural-urban divide in Sarawak presents considerable challenges for individuals contemplating a return. Despite the rapid development of cities like Kuching, there are still many underdeveloped areas in Sarawak that lack basic infrastructure and amenities. This divide can pose a considerable obstacle for individuals who favor the conveniences and opportunities found in more urbanized settings. Concerns arise among potential returnees due to the occurrence of natural disasters, such as floods. Sarawak experiences periodic flooding, which has the potential to impact properties, livelihoods, and overall safety. The consideration of environmental challenges can greatly influence the choice to stay abroad or relocate to more stable areas.
To enhance the appeal of Sarawak, it is imperative to focus on generating a greater number of well-compensated positions and a wider range of career prospects. This could potentially involve creating incentives for businesses to establish operations in Sarawak, focusing on the development of key industries, and offering support for startups and entrepreneurs. It is of utmost importance to have government initiatives that focus on stimulating economic activity and fostering a dynamic job market. Investing in improved infrastructure, specifically in the areas of education and healthcare, has the potential to enhance the livability of Sarawak. It is crucial to ensure that residents have access to services of the highest quality. This encompasses not just the tangible infrastructure, but also the intangible digital infrastructure, like high-speed internet, which plays a crucial role in contemporary lifestyles and professional endeavors.
Implementing policies that promote equitable compensation and benefits can enhance Sarawak’s competitiveness in comparison to other regions. One possible approach is to establish public-private partnerships that focus on improving salary structures and offering extra incentives to highly skilled professionals. By optimizing bureaucratic processes and enhancing the effectiveness of public services, the frustrations commonly experienced while living and working in Sarawak can be significantly reduced. Efforts to streamline bureaucratic processes, increase openness, and improve the accessibility and user-friendliness of government services are crucial. Establishing a secure and open political atmosphere can instill trust among Sarawakians contemplating a comeback. This entails not only addressing corruption but also promoting a culture of accountability and sound governance. Political reforms that are focused on enhancing democratic processes and ensuring fair representation can also contribute to making Sarawak a more appealing destination.
Encouraging Sarawakians to come back to their homeland and play a role in the advancement of the region is commendable and essential. To achieve this goal, it is crucial to take a comprehensive approach that considers various aspects such as the economy, infrastructure, society, culture, politics, and environment. By establishing an environment that caters to the needs and aspirations of its diaspora, Sarawak can aim to entice its talented individuals to return and drive the region’s progress. However, one must ponder: do the current endeavors suffice? Do the existing initiatives adequately address the substantial obstacles that discourage Sarawakians from coming back to their homeland? This statement emphasizes the importance of collaboration between policymakers, business leaders, and the community to build a future Sarawak that meets the desires of its people. The goal is to establish a Sarawak that provides favorable prospects, stability, and a superior standard of living. Only through the application of scientific principles can the vision of a thriving and prosperous Sarawak, propelled by the talents of its people, be fully actualized.
The author is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Composite Materials and Engineering Center, Washington State University
