PAPAR: The district has the potential to become one of Sabah’s leading Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) hubs, backed by its strong human capital and a growing ecosystem of education and skills training institutions, said Pantai Manis assemblyman Datuk Pengiran Saifuddin Pengiran Tahir Petra.
He said the State government’s initiative to strengthen STEM education by identifying selected districts as centres for STEM development is timely and should be fully supported.
He said Papar is well-positioned for such a role, given the presence of numerous technical and vocational institutions and the strong interest among local youths in pursuing skills development and career advancement.
“If there is an opportunity to establish a STEM centre in Papar, we would certainly welcome it because the district has tremendous potential and it would complement its existing education and skills training ecosystem while creating more opportunities for youths in the area and nearby areas.
“Papar has strong synergy with various skills training institutions and talent development centres that are already operating here. Hence, the establishment of a STEM centre would further strengthen our human capital development ecosystem and create more opportunities for local residents,” he said.
Saifuddin, who is also chairman of Sabah Urban Development Corporation Sdn Bhd (SUDC), said this after officiating the Aspirasi Murni 2030: Career and Education Programme for the Pantai Manis constituency, here, recently.
At the ceremony, Deputy State Secretary (Special Duties) Datuk Mohd. Hanafiah Mohd. Kassim presented educational assistance totalling RM772,000 to the education community in Papar, comprising RM400,000 under the BALKIS initiative to the Papar District Education Office (PPD), RM186,000 under BAGUS to Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBGs) of schools in the district, and RM186,000 under SUKSES to schools in Papar.
Also present were Papar District Officer Mohamad Mohd Ali and community leaders.
He described quality human capital as Papar’s greatest strength, noting that youths in the district here have consistently demonstrated a willingness to enhance their knowledge, skills and employability.
“Significantly, Papar’s advantage lies in the human capital that we have. The youths here are always eager to realise their full potential. That is our most important asset in developing STEM and skills-based education.
“The encouraging response to existing training institutions in Papar reflects the community’s commitment to lifelong learning and skills enhancement.
“In fact, the Pantai Manis constituency currently hosts more than six education and training institutions, including the Community College, GIATMARA, the National Youth Skills Institute (IKBN), oil and gas sector training facilities in Kimanis and several other technical training centres,” he said,Saifuddin said these institutions provide a solid foundation for Papar to develop into a comprehensive STEM, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and education hub that can serve not only local residents but also youths from neighbouring districts.
Meanwhile, Saifuddin said the Aspirasi Murni 2030 programme was organised to provide students, school leavers and youths with greater exposure to educational pathways, career opportunities and skills training programmes offered by various agencies and institutions.
He said the programme brought together 33 strategic partners comprising higher education institutions, government agencies and industry players, and saw participation from 13 schools across Papar.
He said participants also attended nine knowledge-sharing sessions conducted by experts on education opportunities, TVET, career development and future industry skills requirements.
“This programme, which was attended by about 600 people, focuses on TVET education and other skills that can enhance youth employability. The response has been very encouraging, not only from students but also from educators.
“In Shaa ALLAH (God willing), if we continue to receive support and have the necessary resources, we hope to make this an annual programme because of the significant benefits it offers the community,” he said.
Saifuddin expressed confidence that, with continued support from the state government and strategic partners, Papar can emerge as an important STEM, TVET and education hub in Sabah.
