Hajiji: Unprecedented RM1.33 Billion Invested in Youth, Education and Skills Development

17 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The State Government will allocate about RM600,000 to assist gig workers in the e-hailing sector to open accounts with the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said a total of 11,109 applications had been received from e-hailing workers seeking to contribute to the EPF.

“I would like to announce that the State Government will allocate nearly RM600,000 to help those (e-hailing workers) who have yet to open EPF accounts,” he said during the Sabah Moto Day 8.0 programme held at the Parade Ground of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) here today.

Hajiji also expressed his delight at the rapid growth of Sabah Moto Day, which this year attracted approximately 60,000 motorcyclists and motorsport enthusiasts from across Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei.

The large turnout of riders and visitors, he said, proved that motorsports remain close to the hearts of both youth and the wider community.

“I am impressed by the support shown by all participants, regardless of age, race, or religion, who have come together out of a shared passion. We should view this gathering in a positive light, as it can contribute, in one way or another, to the state’s economy, given the sheer number of participants and visitors attending the programme,” he said.

Urging all Sabah Moto Day participants to prioritise road safety, Hajiji also expressed hope that the event would further raise awareness of safety among two-wheel motorsports fans.

The Chief Minister went on to tell participants that the State Government views youth as a valuable asset, and has implemented various initiatives to develop human capital.

He noted that the State Government has to date spent RM1.33 billion — including RM848.26 million for educational assistance and RM485 million specifically for talent and skills development programmes — from 2021 to 2025.

“This has never been done by previous state administrations. We are committed to developing our youth, who are the future leaders of this state,” he added.

At the conclusion of his speech, Hajiji also invited attendees to recite al-Fatihah for the late Zara Qairina Mahathir.