Kota Kinabalu: The High-Performance Economic Leadership Conference 2025 (HiPEL25) has served as a catalyst to strengthen high-performing leadership in driving economic growth and excellence in the nation’s public service.
State Secretary Datuk Seri Sr Safar Untong said HiPEL25 marks a new chapter in leadership development – one that integrates both technological and human elements to advance together in harmony.
“Throughout this conference, we have shared a wealth of ideas and experiences that reinforce our shared aspiration to strengthen high-performance leadership in driving economic growth and public service excellence.
“The views and perspectives exchanged remind us that great leadership is not only about achieving results but also about creating impact, building trust and delivering sustainable value for the people.
“The journey towards a high-performing, innovative and resilient public sector begins with each of us leading with vision, integrity and clear purpose,” he said at the closing of the High-Performance Economic Leadership Conference 2025, here, recently. His speech was read by Sabah Public Service Department Deputy Director-General (Development) Celestina Aron.
Safar said technology, data and strategic policy form the core of sustainable economic transformation and public sector governance.
“Technology gives us the space to innovate. Data enables us to make more accurate decisions. Strategic policy ensures that our progress remains anchored in vision and integrity.
“Yet behind all of these, the most important element is our people – their creativity, adaptability and dedication in public service,” he said.
He stressed that Sabah’s future depends not only on its natural resources but on the strength of its human capital – knowledgeable, skilled and forward-looking individuals.
“By strengthening digital skills, fostering innovation and encouraging collaboration between the government, industry, academia and communities, we can build a more competitive and resilient Sabah.
“However, as we digitalise our services, we must also humanise them. Progress without integrity cannot endure. Let our transformation be guided by values of trust, transparency and shared purpose. Let technology serve humanity and let data inspire deeper understanding,” he added.
Held under the theme “Building Smart Economies: Technology, Data, and Strategic Policy”, the one-day conference successfully gathered about 350 participants from various leadership backgrounds to exchange experiences and strategies in advancing high-performance leadership and State economic growth.
