KOTA BELUD: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) has called on Sabah youths to become the driving force behind the state’s political stability and progress by seizing the opportunities provided by the government to build a better future.
He said young people are a vital asset to the state, noting that 54% of Sabah’s population comprises youths.
However, the region continues to face the highest unemployment rate in the country, which stands at 17.1%.
Speaking yesterday at the Lindung Kerjaya Carnival, National TVET Council chairman Ahmad Zahid announced that he will prioritise skills training for Sabah youths, stating, “We want Sabah youths to be given a premium salary of at least RM2,000 a month on the condition that they undergo technical and vocational education and training (TVET) courses.”
Also present were Deputy Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, and Barisan Nasional candidates for the Usukan seat, Datuk Seri Mohd Salleh Said Keruak, Tadzul Radim (Pintasan) and Azuwan Marjan @ Norjan (Tempasuk).
Ahmad Zahid said the premium salary initiative would ensure that Sabah youths do not migrate to Peninsular Malaysia or Sarawak to seek employment but instead build their careers and lives in their home state.
He added that the Federal Government would continue strengthening training opportunities in Sabah through the establishment of new GiatMara centres, including one in the Tempasuk state constituency, to ensure local youths are better prepared for an increasingly competitive job market.
Ahmad Zahid stated that there are presently 25 GiatMara centres in Sabah.
As part of the 13th Malaysia Plan, this number is set to increase, with the aim of training young people, particularly those pursuing careers in high-paying job sectors.
The initiative, he added, aligns with the government’s commitment to produce more skilled workers in the high-technology sector, thereby bolstering Sabah’s overall economy.
He also emphasised the need to ensure political stability in Sabah so the state’s full developmental potential can be realised.
