KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called for enhanced development programmes for youth and sports in Sabah.

The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of the state Youth and Sports Ministry due to its focus on youth and sports.

He praised the ministry for its initiatives in these areas.

"Youths are our future; therefore, their development is crucial," he said during a working visit to the ministry at Wisma Muis on Thursday (Sept 19).

"I want the ministry to further improve the standard of sports in Sabah, including refurbishing sports complexes and facilities to benefit athletes," Hajiji added.

Regarding youth programmes, the Chief Minister cited the successful Youth Entrepreneur Development Programme (Syabas), which has elevated some participants to millionaire status.

Datuk Mansor Asun, the ministry’s permanent secretary, disclosed that RM7mil has been allocated for the programme, benefiting 5,500 recipients in various business enterprises across the state.

"This is an excellent programme. I want more emphasis on it so that more deserving youths can benefit," Hajiji said.

He also congratulated the Sabah contingent for securing 29 golds in the 2024 Malaysia Games (Sukma) held in Sarawak last month.

"Although we fell short of the 40-gold target, we gave our best. Train harder to do better in the future," he said.

Hajiji also praised Eddy Bernard, Sabah’s paralympian to the Paris Paralympics, for winning the 100m bronze medal.

Present at the event were state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ellron Alfred Angin, Rural Development Minister Datuk Jahid Jahim, state Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Ariffin Arif, assistant ministers, and senior Youth and Sports Ministry officials.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/19/hajiji-urges-stronger-youth-and-sports-development-in-sabah