KOTA KINABALU: The opening of the Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Sabah branch creates opportunities and opens up choices for Sabahans to further their studies at the tertiary level.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said the university would directly assist with the development of the state's higher education.
He added that it is the cornerstone of progress and development and it is the state's collective responsibility to ensure that children in Sabah receive the best education.
"People are our greatest asset. By investing in education, training, and skill development, we aim to prepare our population for future challenges and opportunities.
"I applaud TAR UMT's 'Beyond Education' philosophy which emphasises academic excellence, nurtures important competencies and develops civic values in its students.
"These are holistic developments that will empower students, especially the youths in Sabah, not only to achieve their ambitions but to also contribute to the development of the State," he said in a statement after the university opening at Alamesra near here.
Hajiji said the State Government had allocated RM475 million to strengthen human capital development this year.
The state government has also allocated another RM16.89 million to implement Sabah's Youth Leadership Development Programme this year which included voluntarism and social unity activities.
"We will continue to channel resources to implement various programmes for our youths, including leadership, skill, and entrepreneurial activities.
"Youth development schemes such as the Sabah Youth Entrepreneurs Success Scheme (SYABAS) will continue to further support young entrepreneurs in starting and strengthening their entrepreneurial ventures," he said.
Hajiji also said the state government had introduced various programmes and initiatives to support and equip youths, among them the Student Consultative Council (MPPS) comprising public and private higher learning institutions' student leaders from all over the country including universities, polytechnics, community and skills institutes as well as secondary schools.
Present was TAR Education Foundation Board of Director Chairman Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong.