Kota Kinabalu: Sabah recorded a consistent upward trend in permanent and interim contract appointments in the federal civil service over the past three years since 2022.
Public Services Commission (SPA) Chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Jailani Muhamed Yunus said Sabah not only received the highest number of applications but also topped the chart in terms of new appointments last year, reflecting growing awareness among local youths of career opportunities in government service.
“Over the past three years, Sabah has maintained its position as the State with the highest number of applicants for vacancies in the federal public service.
“In 2024 alone, over 11 per cent of all civil service appointments were made in Sabah, making it the State with the highest number of recruitments.
“This is a very good indicator, showing strong awareness among Sabah’s youths and graduates to join the civil service,” he said after a courtesy visit on Head of State Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu.
He said SPA has also begun leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) in its recruitment processes, starting with initial assessments.
The Candidate Psychometric (PC) system now uses AI to randomise test questions, preventing leaks and manipulation.
This ensures each candidate receives a unique set of questions during entry-level assessments.
AI is also being used to analyse personality traits and will eventually play a greater role in verifying personal records such as certificates and identification documents, streamlining the screening process before interviews.
Jailani reaffirmed SPA’s support for the State Government in widening job access through initiatives like the recent Kembara Kerjaya Madani SPA outreach in Kudat and Pulau Banggi.
The programme offers interview tips and application guidance for jobseekers.
Also present were Deputy SPA Chairman Datuk Zohari Said and SPA Secretary Datuk Ikhbal Hanam Mukras.
