IPOH: The unemployment rate in Perak has been declining since 2008 because of the increasing number of job opportunities in the state, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.
He said that in 2008, the unemployment rate in the state was 3.8 per cent. It was reduced to 3.5 per cent in 2009, and 3.2 per cent in 2010.
“All this was achieved after the state government initiated numerous efforts, such as creating new sectors and industries that are able to offer job opportunities to youths,” he said.
Zambry said the new sectors and industries ensured that school-leavers who were unable or did not want to further their studies could stay on and make a living.
“We also see potential for further growth in agriculture and biodiversity sectors,” he said.
Zambry said another effort was the establishment of Amanjaya Career Centre (Peka), a one-stop centre set up in March last year by the state government to tackle unemployment and assist job seekers in finding employment based on their qualifications.
“Peka conducts job-matching programmes to help those with qualifications get jobs which reflect their capabilities,” he said.
He said Peka's engagement with companies had helped make the initiative successful.
It was reported the centre had so far registered 6,000 applicants, including those looking for better jobs.
Zambry also said that although the state government managed to maintain the unemployment rate below four per cent, it was determined to bring down the rate even further.