Sabah Nearly RM1 Billion on Education Between 2021 and 2024

17 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah State Government has invested a substantial RM848.26 million in education-related assistance from 2021 to 2024, underscoring its strong commitment to human capital development, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

“The State Government’s dedication to building human capital is unwavering. We believe that every Sabahan child deserves access to quality, equitable education regardless of background,” he said. “This is why education has always remained a key focus under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan.”

The Chief Minister’s remarks were delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, during the 29th Education Convention and the 3rd General Assembly of the Malaysian Headmasters’ Association, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) last night.

Hajiji revealed that over the past five years, the State Government has rolled out 14 new education initiatives totalling RM164.14 million, directly benefiting more than 210,000 students across Sabah.

Key initiatives include:

BUDI – Cash assistance for enrolment fees at institutions of higher learning (IPT)

GRS-SUBFLY – The Graduan Rindu Sabah programme to support returning graduates

SENTOSA – Financial contributions to local students pursuing higher education

“These programmes reflect our holistic approach to education. They are designed not only to ease the financial burden on families, but to ensure that no capable student is left behind due to economic hardship,” he said.

The Chief Minister further emphasised the need for strong leadership in schools, especially in an era defined by digital transformation and evolving educational landscapes.

“Headmasters must be ready to face the demands of 21st-century learning. As the cornerstone of school leadership, your role is critical in guiding educators, managing resources, and implementing reforms that align with national aspirations,” he noted.

He praised the convention as a vital platform for sharing best practices, experiences, and strategies to enhance school leadership and drive continuous improvement in education quality at the grassroots level.

“I am confident that through collaboration and the exchange of knowledge at gatherings like this, we can cultivate excellent school leaders who will shape the future generation.”

He also acknowledged the contributions of the Malaysian Headmasters’ Association in championing the professionalism of primary school leadership nationwide.

“Let us continue working together to uphold the dignity of the teaching profession, strengthen the role of school leaders, and empower our youth with the tools they need to thrive.”