KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has assured to provide a diverse pool of human resources in the state to further boost economic growth.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the development of human capital was crucial for the sustainable growth and development of Sabah, contributing to economic progress, improving the well-being of the population, fostering social inclusivity, and making the state more competitive globally.
He added that the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme also played a crucial role in developing the necessary human capital for the state's economic development.
"TVET is now not only about equipping individuals with skills but is also synonymous with empowerment, job opportunities, and economic growth. It fosters innovators, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers who will drive Sabah's progress," he said during the handover ceremony of the BIZRIDER Mobile Mechanic Programme Assistance at the Rafflesia Hall, Kota Kinabalu Polytechnic here.
Hajiji, who is also Sabah Economic Development and Investment Authority (Sedia) chairman, added the state would provide opportunities for Sabah's youth to enhance the employability rate of TVET graduates.
"The TVET programme is highly relevant to Sabah's ongoing efforts to develop its economy, supported by the SMJ Development Plan.
"It also allows graduates to become skilled workers, reducing dependence on foreign workers.
"Sabah, with its natural resources, oil and gas, agriculture, and investment sectors, aims to develop the manufacturing sector in line with the government's various initiatives to ensure economic growth is enhanced."
Meanwhile, Hajiji said 3,116 participants in the #BIZRIDER300 Programme and the Sabah Development Corridor (SDC)-Sabah Talent Enhancement Programme (SSTEP) had completed 280 programmes encompassing reskilling and upskilling instruction, job matching, and entrepreneurial prospects.
He said the #BIZRIDER300 Programme, launched on July 14, last year had provided assistance to 100 youth in the form of motorcycles and job matching as food delivery partners through collaboration with the largest food delivery company in Malaysia.
Alumni of the community college and polytechnic will be granted the keys to 15 motorcycles with the intention of operating them as mobile mechanics.