Deputy PM calls on Sabah youths to seize opportunities, with premium RM2,000 salary for TVET graduates to address 17.1% unemployment rate
KOTA BELUD: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged Sabah youths to become the primary drivers of the state’s political stability and economic progress.
He emphasised that young people represent Sabah’s most vital asset, comprising 54% of the state population.
Despite this demographic advantage, Sabah continues to record Malaysia’s highest unemployment rate at 17.1%.
“We want Sabah youths to be given a premium salary of at least RM2,000 monthly, provided they complete Technical and Vocational Education and Training courses,” he announced.
Speaking at the Lindung Kerjaya Carnival, Ahmad Zahid pledged to prioritise skills training for Sabah youths as chairman of the National TVET Council.
The premium salary initiative aims to prevent youth migration to Peninsular Malaysia or Sarawak for employment opportunities.
He stated this approach would enable young Sabahans to build careers and lives within their home state.
The federal government will expand training infrastructure through new GiatMARA centres, including one in the Tempasuk constituency.
“Currently we have 25 GiatMARA centres in Sabah,” Ahmad Zahid noted.
“Under the 13th Malaysia Plan, we will increase these centres to train youth for high-paying job fields.”
This initiative aligns with government efforts to produce more skilled workers for the high-technology sector.
Ahmad Zahid stressed that strengthening Sabah’s economy requires ensuring political stability within the state.
He emphasised that stable governance would enable Sabah to realise its full development potential.
The event was attended by Deputy Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad and Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.
Also present were Barisan Nasional candidates for Usukan, Pintasan and Tempasuk state seats. – Bernama
