One of the most important skills for an individual to learn is speaking skills. In preparation to enter the job market, students should be able to communicate effectively. There is a need to identify the language learning strategies used by good learners in learning speaking skills. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate the language learning strategies (LLS) in learning speaking skills and the motivation level to learn speaking by the Semester 1 engineering Diploma students in a polytechnic in Sarawak. A quantitative research was carried out. The purposive sampling method was used in selecting the respondents. Based on the findings, metacognitive strategies were the most used LLS while social strategies were the least used LLS. Learners' motivation level was average with low self-esteem as one of the factors that influenced the learning of speaking skills. More studies should be conducted to study the factors affecting the use of LLS among students for the exact purpose of understanding their way of learning a language. Students should also be aware of how to use LLS in learning speaking to develop their speaking abilities.

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TVET graduates contribute greatly to the country's development. Issues regarding the readiness of TVET graduates upon entering the industry have been raised especially on their level of proficiency in the English language. English language proficiency is important and has become one of the top five reasons for recruiting fresh graduates. Not only do TVET graduates need to excel in technical skills, but they also need to be equipped with other essential skills such as communication skills especially English language competency. Employers place strong communication skills at the top of their priority list, and this is the first thing they look for in every new employee interested in working for their separate businesses. TVET education content needs to be on par with the industrial demand and the active role of the industries in giving direct feedback to the educational institutions is crucial. Therefore, this study aims to highlight the importance of English competency and the challenges of teaching English in technical institutions. Apart from that, this study also suggests some measures that can be implemented in enhancing TVET graduates' marketability in the workplace.