THE Sabah Government has allocated a total of RM118.42 million under the 2026 State Budget to empower women, develop youth, and enhance sports across the State, said State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
He said the allocation will support the Sabah Women’s Affairs Department (Jhewa), Yayasan Usaha Maju (YUM), and the Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy Ministry in implementing programmes for empowerment, skill development, and athletic excellence.
Masidi explained that the State Government recognises the vital role of women in nurturing future generations and contributing to economic growth.
“RM8.24 million has been allocated to Jhewa for operations and to implement women empowerment programmes.
“New initiatives include Jhewa BizBloom for economic support, Keluarga Sejahtera Wanita Unggul, Women of Substance, entrepreneurship training, and product development and promotion programmes,” he said.
He added that under 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), Jhewa has been allocated a ceiling of RM1.8 million to implement the Construction of Women’s Hostel Phase 2 Project at Wisma Wanita, with RM500,000 set aside for preliminary works.
“Meanwhile, RM12.12 million is allocated to YUM to continue the Credit Community Programme, helping low-income women engaged in small-scale businesses generate household income,” he said.
Masidi noted that youths are valuable assets and leaders of Sabah’s future generations.
“RM98.06 million will be allocated next year for operational and development expenditures under the Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy Ministry, with RM16.75 million specifically for youth human capital development and grants to youth associations.
“Sports development remains a priority, with RM27.21 million allocated to improve training, facilities, and competitive participation.
“Sabah athletes have achieved notable success, including defending the overall championship title at the 22nd Malaysian Deaf Sports Games (Sopma) 2025 and bringing honour to the State in various international sporting events,” he said.
He emphasised that the Sabah Sports Council (MSNS) will receive RM20 million to implement athlete talent search programmes, high-performance athlete training, and preparations for Paralympic athletes in conjunction with the 2026 Malaysian Games (Sukma) in Selangor.
“RM5.05 million is allocated to 54 State Sports Associations, while RM800,000 will support mass sports programmes to encourage wider community participation,” he said.
Masidi also highlighted Sabah FC’s success in reaching the FA Cup final after 27 years, urging all Sabahans to rally behind the team as they face Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) on Dec 14, 2025.
He added that RM25 million has been allocated to the Sabah Sports Board for operational expenditures to maintain and manage sports facilities across the State.
“Under 13MP, a ceiling of RM445.63 million has been approved for 20 development projects, comprising six continuation projects and 14 new initiatives, including RM10.05 million for the construction and upgrading of sports facilities throughout Sabah.
“A feasibility study for the construction of Kota Kinabalu Main Stadium is scheduled to commence in 2026,” he said.
The Minister said that by investing in youth development, sports, and women empowerment, the State Government aims to cultivate a more inclusive, active, and skilled society.
“These initiatives are designed to ensure Sabahans of all ages and backgrounds can achieve their potential and contribute to the State’s growth,” he said.
Masidi concluded that the 2026 State Budget demonstrates Sabah’s commitment to empowering women, nurturing youth talent, and promoting sporting excellence, which collectively strengthen social cohesion, economic opportunities, and the overall well-being of the people.
