ALOR STAR: The state government should prioritise developing the skills of youths as gig work was not sustainable in the long term.
Kedah opposition leader Bau Wong Bau Ek (PH-Sidam) said although the gig economy created a new source of income for youths, it should be viewed only as a short-term solution.
"Gig economy jobs dominated by youths now is not a wise solution and not sustainable in the long term," he said while debating the 2025 Kedah Budget at the state assembly today
"They should be trained to master skills that could generate sustainable income to support their lives in the long term."
Bau Wong said the state government government invest in skills development programmes and vocational training initiatives, especially for youths in rural areas.
"Kedah is blessed with industrial hubs that have contributed significantly to economic growth. We are aware that these industries are employing our skilled workers.
"I believe the state government should focus more on training institutions to meet the demand for skilled workers.
"Collaboration with the private sector and all learning institutions in Kedah must be prioritised to cater to the demand from the industrial sector," he said.
Bau said infrastructure in rural areas should be improved to attract investment that would spur the economy and create jobs.
"This could be realised through collaboration with the players in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors, which are the main contributors to the state economy," he said.