Kota Kinabalu: Several programmes will be planned to ensure Sabahans enjoy the development of science, technology, innovation and economy (STIE).
Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said they would work with the Sabah Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (KSTI) in an effort to translate the STIE policy to the people.
“I would like to see the STIE policy at the federal level be translated with close cooperation, especially up to the state level.
“Therefore, KSTI and I discussed and planned several cooperation programmes for the rest of this year in terms of infrastructure and increasing collaboration between the two ministries,” he said.
Highlighting the success of two major programmes implemented by MOSTI throughout Malaysia last year, he was optimistic that similar programmes would continue.
“Previously, we implemented a good programme for Sabah which is the Techlympics Programme in the form of a competition that is able to enhance innovation among the youth and beliawanis to venture into the field of science and technology.
“In addition, last year we also implemented the Upskilling for Deeptech Programme to improve the skills of employees in the field of technology and received a response beyond expectations.
“For example last year, the quota initially given was only 300 but due to encouraging participation we increased it to 500 and finally we got 534 participants.
“With good experience and certification all participants found employment opportunities in the field of technology.
“Therefore, I hope that after the presentation of the budget on February 24, MOSTI will receive a larger allocation for us to continue programmes like this in collaboration with KSTI for the benefit of the community in the State,” he said after paying a courtesy call on the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif.
Meanwhile, Arifin also expressed his appreciation and readiness for the collaboration, especially in efforts to popularise science and innovation in Sabah through the establishment of the Sabah Science Centre and strengthening the function of the Tanjung Dumpil Al Biruni Observatory.
