KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has allocated RM16.89 million in its 2024 Budget aimed at youth empowerment to achieve socio-economic wellbeing.

In line with the Sabah Youth Policy, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the budget would implement various leadership skills and entrepreneurship programmes and activities.

He said among the "High Impact" programmes continued by the government were the Felo Sabah Maju Jaya (Felo SMJ) and the Sabah Youth Council (DBS).

"Human capital is one of the essential elements to increase the productivity and economic growth potential of a state.

"Therefore, the human capital development agenda will continue to be emphasised in efforts to produce high-quality, skilled and first-class-minded youth," he said during the launch of the Sabah Youth Carnival 2024 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here.

Present was Sabah Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ellron Angin.

Hajiji said the youth must also realise that they were the current and future leaders of the country, particularly for Sabah.

Therefore, he said, it was crucial for them to constantly seek knowledge, maintain good health and foster a confident attitude for the progress of Sabah Maju Jaya.

"The country's success in securing a RM10.5 billion investment from Microsoft Corp in cloud technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) recently is a strong reason to equip Sabah youths with cloud and AI technology skills.

"To ensure Sabah is ready for the Industrial Revolution 5.0 (IR 5.0), we need to look at the potential and talents available and empower Sabah youths with various skills.

"This is because youths are an important asset in advancing the state and the country towards a brighter future."

He added that the Sabah Youth Carnival, which is being held annually, was a platform to celebrate the important day for youth, as it not only polishes and highlights the potential of Sabah's younger generation but also fosters leadership and volunteerism while appreciating their role in the state's development.

"Therefore, it is important for us to implement programmes and activities that follow current trends, suitable for the current inclinations of youths, such as reskilling and upskilling programmes, sports and skills competitions, exhibitions, and forums to provide opportunities for youths to learn, exchange ideas and drive holistic self-development."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/05/1052219/sabah-allocates-rm1689-million-state-budget-empower-youth-economic