Kota kinabalu: The state government has allocated nearly RM600,000 to assist e-hailing gig workers in opening their Employees Provident Fund (EPF) accounts, announced Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. This initiative is designed to support the 11,109 applications received from e-hailing workers seeking contributions to their EPF accounts.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji made these remarks during his speech at the launch of the Sabah Moto Day 8.0 programme at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). The event attracted approximately 60,000 motorcyclists and motorsports enthusiasts from Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei, highlighting the enduring appeal of motorsports to both the youth and the general public.

Hajiji expressed his appreciation for the diverse group of participants, noting the event's potential impact on the state's economic growth. "I am truly impressed by the support from all participants, regardless of age, race, or religion, united by a common interest," he stated.

In a separate speech at the launch of the Youth Programme in Putatan, Hajiji emphasized the state government's commitment to youth development. The government has introduced various initiatives, including grants, training, and innovation and entrepreneurship programmes, to provide platforms for Sabah's youth to thrive.

The Youth Programme Grant, amounting to RM300,000, will be distributed to youth NGOs in the Tanjung Aru, Petagas, and Tanjung Keramat constituencies within the Putatan parliamentary area. Hajiji encouraged the beneficiaries to implement programmes that will benefit the local youth.

He further outlined the government's investment of RM1.33 billion, including RM848.26 million for educational assistance and RM485 million for talent development and skills programmes from 2021 to the present. "This is an unprecedented commitment by the state government. We are dedicated to nurturing our youth, who will be the leaders of tomorrow," he added.