Dr Joachim presents a certificate to Abbie Gayle Simplisius, one of the recipients of the Chief Executive’s Award (Diploma in Business Management).
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor wants Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah (KTYS) to strengthen its role in providing academic education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
He said as an educational institution closely linked to Yayasan Sabah’s human capital development agenda, KTYS must remain responsive to changes in industry, technology and the State’s workforce needs.
“The job market today demands not only academic excellence, but also strong technical skills, critical thinking and the ability to adapt quickly. This is where institutions such as KTYS play a very important role,” he said.
He said this at the 29th KTYS Convocation at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today. His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I-cum-Minister of Works and Utilities, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
Hajiji, who is also Chairman of the Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees, said the management and entire KTYS community must continue to improve the quality of education and training programmes by taking into account industry developments and the actual needs of the job market.
“Make graduate development one of the key measures of the effectiveness of the programmes offered. Alumni experiences in employment and further studies, as well as feedback from industry and employers, should be utilised to improve study programmes from time to time,” he said.
He said as agents of change, KTYS graduates play a very important role in ensuring the State’s progress moves forward smoothly and steadily while delivering a long-term impact.
“At the same time, industry players also need to play their part by providing students with opportunities for training, guidance, exposure and work experience,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that under the 2026 Sabah Budget, the State Government had allocated RM437.93 million to empower and develop human capital, not only in academic aspects but also in spiritual development.
“This year also marks the first year of implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan 2.0. This commitment must be translated into results that can be felt by the people.
“Its success will be measured by the extent to which more Sabahans are given opportunities to pursue higher education, acquire skills and secure employment that can improve their standard of living,” he said.
He said in achieving this goal, the Yayasan Sabah Group continued to play an important role and had provided various forms of educational support to Sabahans, including scholarships and study loans.
“In addition, the Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) has channelled RM40 million in assistance since its launch on June 2, 2022, directly benefiting 27,781 students throughout the State,” he said.
Hajiji also advised graduates that convocation was not the end of their education, but rather marked the beginning of greater responsibilities and opened a new chapter in contributing to society and the State’s economy.
“Uphold the good name of yourselves, your families and KTYS through your actions and contributions. Be individuals who can be trusted, have integrity and are ready to shoulder responsibilities when you are out there.
“Upon entering the workforce, use all the knowledge you have gained during your time at KTYS to innovate,” he said.
