TAWAU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor urged Sabah youths to equip themselves with high-level skills, master emerging technologies and uphold integrity to remain competitive in the future economy.
He said youths are no longer merely future leaders but have become drivers of ideas, economic growth, innovation, community leadership and strategic partners of the Government in shaping Sabah’s development.
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“The development of a state does not depend solely on natural resources or physical progress, but also on the quality of its people, particularly the younger
generation.
“Do not be afraid to venture into new fields such as digital entrepreneurship, the green economy and innovation, which can create employment opportunities for yourselves and your local communities,” he said when officiating the Sabah Youth Carnival, held in conjunction with the 2026 National Youth Day celebration, at the Tawau Sports Complex Indoor Stadium, Saturday.
His speech was delivered by State Youth Development, Sports and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan.
Hajiji said the State Government continues to make youth development a priority, particularly under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 development plan for 2026-2030.
He said the plan builds on the achievements of SMJ 1.0 and serves as a framework to strengthen the State’s economy, accelerate infrastructure development, improve people’s wellbeing and develop human capital towards making Sabah a progressive, inclusive and resilient state.
He said the Government would continue to ensure that youths’ views and needs are addressed through policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening youth leadership and preparing them for future challenges.
He added that the State Government would continue investing in human capital development through greater access to education, skills training, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), talent development, leadership programmes and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Hajiji said the Government has continued implementing 14 education assistance initiatives introduced since 2021 to ensure more Sabah students have access to quality education without financial constraints.
He said emphasis is also being placed on TVET in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), the digital economy, automation, renewable energy, green technology, oil and gas, aerospace, maritime, tourism, modern agriculture and the creative economy.
On the launch of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Youth Volunteers programme during the carnival, Hajiji said it was more than just a programme, describing it as a movement to harness the aspirations and potential of Sabah youths.
He said the initiative aims to produce youths who are competitive, skilled, innovative, possess integrity and have a strong spirit of volunteerism.
He hoped the programme would produce young leaders with a strong sense of responsibility, unity and commitment to Sabah’s development.
“We want Sabah youths to be recognised for their achievements, the values they uphold and their contributions to the state, the nation and the world,” he said.
Hajiji also called for volunteerism to be strengthened among youths, noting that Sabah continues to face challenges such as natural disasters, climate change and social issues that require people to help one another regardless of race, religion or background.
He urged youths to continue serving as a bridge of unity and not be influenced by external elements that could threaten the State’s peace and harmony.
