Sabah: Sabah is moving towards a diversified economy, creating a need for skilled workers not only in the oil and gas sector but also in manufacturing, construction, energy, tourism, modern agriculture, technology and the digital economy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sabah Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk James Ratib said the state could not rely solely on foreign workers but instead needed to expand education and skills training opportunities to produce more qualified local talent and meet industry needs.

He emphasized that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) was among the state government's key focuses in efforts to strengthen human capital development and provide a workforce that meets industry requirements. 'We want Sabah's youths to be part of the driving force of the state's economy, not merely spectators to the development taking place in their own state,' he stated during his speech at the Petronas Powering Knowledge Education Sponsorship presentation ceremony at the Sabah International Convention Centre.

James highlighted that collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and industry is crucial for developing a workforce that aligns with industry demands. The government provides the ecosystem, educational and training institutions develop talent, and industry creates growth opportunities, he explained.

In his address, James also expressed gratitude for Petronas' contribution through its scholarship program, which offers educational opportunities for secondary school students in Sabah for the 2026/2027 session, with 25 students selected as recipients. He noted that the latest recipients brought the total number of scholarship beneficiaries to 140 since its inception in 2023, with nine recipients receiving full education sponsorships.

Furthermore, he welcomed Petronas' initiative through the Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) to admit 22 new trainees for the Malaysian Skills Diploma programme in Industrial Instrumentation and Control Systems. 'These fields have strategic value in supporting the needs of modern industries, particularly the oil and gas sector, as well as other fields that are increasingly expanding,' he added, underscoring the necessity for a skilled and competitive workforce in Sabah.