KOTA KINABALU: Any effort to make Sabah a developed and competitive state must start with developing highly skilled human capital, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
In a speech delivered by State Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim M Yahya, Hajiji said the State Government continues to prioritise technical and vocational education and training (TVET) under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan.
He thanked Petronas for its long-standing support in nurturing Sabah’s youth through quality education and skills programmes, including the Education Sponsorship Awards presented here on Monday.
Hajiji said the State has allocated RM1.33 billion under SMJ Plan 1.0 to strengthen human capital, with RM848.26 million for education assistance and RM485 million channelled into skills and talent development.
He also welcomed the accreditation of the Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC), calling it a milestone in preparing Sabahans for jobs in oil and gas and other growing sectors.
Twenty new students will soon begin their Malaysia Skills Diploma at KTC, and Hajiji hopes more Sabah youths will pursue technical careers in traditional industries and emerging areas like digital technology and modern agriculture.
He said TVET remains a key pathway to stable, high-value jobs and praised Petronas for inspiring students through scholarship schemes that align with the state’s long-term development goals.
