KOTA KINABALU: The Education Ministry is planning to establish more vocational colleges in Sabah, aligning with local industry needs and strengthening access to technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek highlighted the strong potential for further development in the state, revealing that preliminary discussions are already underway at the ministry level.
“We are constantly making plans to ensure equal opportunities, especially for students in Sabah.
“I’ve already spoken with the director-general and we see strong potential here,” she said after launching the Sandakan Vocational College 2 yesterday.
Fadhlina noted that the establishment of future vocational colleges would be considered under upcoming Malaysia Plans, taking into account Sabah’s industrial landscape and workforce demands.
“This is part of a larger national agenda. We want to produce highly-skilled, home-grown talent and ensure Sabah’s youth are not left behind,” she said.
Fadhlina stressed that vocational education must be treated as a priority, not a fallback, and that the perception surrounding TVET needs to shift – particularly among parents and local communities.
To support this, the ministry has introduced KV Insani, an advocacy programme aimed at strengthening community and parental confidence in vocational pathways.
“The community needs to be convinced. Parents need to be convinced.
“That’s what KV Insani is about – delivering the message that TVET is a credible, competitive choice,” she said.
Fadhlina explained that the focus was no longer just on employability but also on upskilling, fostering stronger industry collaborations and ensuring better starting wages.
“It’s not just about getting a job – it’s about getting dignified pay that reflects their expertise. That’s what we’re pushing for,” she said.
Sandakan Vocational College 2 is the latest addition to the Education Ministry’s TVET network.
Developed at a cost of RM59.8mil and spanning 3.8ha, it is the first purpose-built vocational college in Sabah designed to meet certificate and diploma- level programme requirements.
