Rethinking Graduate Employability and Industry Readiness in Sarawak’s Tertiary Sectors Through a Skills Intensity Framework

Abstract

Tertiary sectors such as tourism, services, and education are central to Sarawak’s economic development. Yet, despite expanding higher education participation, persistent skills gaps continue to challenge graduate employability. Drawing on focus group discussions with industry stakeholders and higher education representatives, this study examines the employability deficits most critical to the tertiary sectors. Findings highlight recurring weaknesses in communication, workplace discipline, digital competency, and sustainability knowledge. The paper proposes a skills-intensity framework that stratifies employability skills into universal, hybrid, and specialized levels, offering an original model for addressing workforce readiness in service-oriented economies. By focusing on the layered demands of tertiary industries, this study contributes to global debates on employability and provides policy-relevant insights for Sarawak’s PCDS 2030.