KOTA KINABALU: Sabah wants to produce a generation that is not merely users of technology, but is capable of understanding technology, developing solutions, creating value and producing innovations suited to the State’s unique characteristics and needs.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said mastery of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) is no longer an option, but an important necessity in driving economic growth and improving the people’s well-being.
“In this situation, we cannot merely observe or remain as users of technology. We need to develop a generation capable of understanding technology, producing solutions, creating value and developing innovations that suit the unique characteristics and needs of our State.
“That is why we want to shift the scenario from merely being ‘technology users’ to becoming ‘technology creators’,” he said when officiating at the closing of the Integrated STI Cultivation Programme at the Second Central Lecture Hall Complex, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) here on Tuesday.
His speech was delivered by State Assistant Minister of Women, Health and People’s Well-being Datuk Rina Jainal.
Hajiji said the rapid development of artificial intelligence (Al), automation, digital technology, biotechnology, space technology and renewable energy is reshaping the way people learn, work and conduct business.
He said mastery of STI is crucial in supporting the implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 Development Plan, including producing a skilled workforce in Al, digital technology and high-impact strategic sectors.
“We do not want the people of Sabah to be left behind in the wave of digital transformation, which is changing the landscape of employment, education and economic development, both now and in the future,” he said.
He said Sabah has its own strengths through its rich biodiversity, natural resources, cultural diversity and vast economic potential, which can be further enhanced through research and innovation.
These include smart agriculture, food security, biodiversity, green energy, water resource management, healthcare, marine technology, science-based tourism and the digital economy.
In this regard, Hajiji said the development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) talent is a crucial long-term investment in preparing for future challenges, including developments in Al technology.
He said cooperation between the State and Federal governments, particularly through the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), the Sabah Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (KPSTI) and UMS, must be strengthened to ensure that the STI cultivation agenda is implemented continuously and comprehensively.
He said more programmes should be brought to schools and communities, including in rural and interior areas, so that opportunities for exposure to science and technology are not concentrated only in urban areas.
He expressed hope that the carnival would serve as a catalyst for greater collaboration among schools, universities, government agencies, researchers, industries and communities through projects, training, competitions, mentoring, joint research and knowledge transfer.
Hajiji also wants innovations to be commercialised and utilised across various sectors, including to help increase agricultural yields and facilitate business operations for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Sabah.
“Every effort we make today to bring the younger generation closer to STI is an investment in Sabah’s future,” he said, while calling on parents and educators to continue supporting children’s interest in STI.-pr/BNN
