Kota Kinabalu: Masidi said RM437.93 million has been allocated to develop human capital.
He said the allocation covers both academic and spiritual development, ensuring Sabahans are equipped with knowledge, skills and innovation to meet the demands of a high-value, knowledge-driven economy.
“Developing high-skilled human capital is essential not only to elevate social standing but also to improve the economic wellbeing of individuals and communities.
“Investing in education and skills training is a key pillar in ensuring Sabahans can participate effectively in the State’s growing knowledge and innovation sectors,” he said.
Under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), RM112.4 million has been approved to fund 36 projects under the Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry and the Sabah Islamic Affairs Department (Jheians), covering both academic and spiritual development.
He underscored that Islamic religious affairs programmes under Jheians will receive RM151.08 million to operate religious schools and mosques, while RM90 million will support non-Islamic religious bodies and private schools.
“These initiatives aim to provide holistic development opportunities for students across the State,” he said.
He added that library services, including rural and mobile libraries, will receive RM47.3 million, expanding access to learning resources and fostering reading habits among Sabahans.
“Language and ICT courses, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), digital technology, oil and gas, hospitality, safety and health, agriculture and oil palm training programmes will receive RM39.24 million to ensure technical skills development aligns with industry needs,” he said.
He also noted that various training programmes under the Human Resource Development Department will receive RM27.96 million, supporting workforce readiness, while RM32.85 million will fund courses related to crop agriculture, fisheries, and livestock under the State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Ministry, linking education directly with sectoral development.
Masidi also noted that educational assistance remains a priority, with scholarships, bursaries and funding programmes like One-off Higher Learning Institute Registration Cash Assistance (Budi), Computer Assistance (Baik), Special Cash Assistance for Examination (Bakti), Sabah Student Flight Ticket Subsidy (Subfly) as well as Assistance for Tertiary Education Students in Sabah (Sentosa) and the newly introduced Bayu for Muet registration fees, expected to benefit over 8,400 students in 2026.
He stressed that human capital development is closely linked with ICT infrastructure, as digital tools and systems enhance learning opportunities, access to resources and training delivery across Sabah, benefiting both rural and urban communities.
“The Sabah Government is committed to equipping our people with the skills, knowledge and opportunities to thrive in a modern economy,” he said.
He emphasised that these initiatives form a foundation for sustainable growth, innovation and social development across the State.
Masidi stated that the 2026 allocation for human capital demonstrates the Government’s vision to nurture a capable, innovative and resilient workforce that will support Sabah’s long-term development and the well-being of all its people.
