Kota Kinabalu: Nominated Assemblyman Datuk Abdul Kassim Jali @ Razali proposed the establishment of a dedicated statutory body to coordinate the State’s digitalisation agenda so that it can be implemented more efficiently, systematically and effectively.
He said the rapid pace of digitalisation today requires a specialised entity responsible for formulating, coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the State’s digital agenda to prevent overlapping functions among agencies.
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“Digitalisation is a necessity, no longer an option. This agenda must be coordinated efficiently and effectively to ensure comprehensive and high-impact implementation at the State level,” he said when debating the 2026 Sabah Budget 2026.
Abdul Kassim also stressed that the development of physical infrastructure must be balanced with the development of human capital to ensure that investments coming into Sabah can be fully used by local talent.
According to him, without a highly-skilled workforce, the influx of high-impact investments will not generate maximum returns for the people of the State.
He welcomed the allocation of RM437.93 million for the development and empowerment of human capital, describing it as a strategic investment for Sabah’s future.
“Investment in human capital is a long-term investment. The results may not be visible in the short term, but they will bear fruit within five to 10 years,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of education that is aligned with industry needs, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem) as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Tvet).
Abdul Kassim said changes in the global economic landscape, including the rise of the gig economy, artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, demand new skill sets that are relevant to current industry needs.
On the RM39.24 million allocation for Stem and Tvet, he proposed that part of the funds be used to establish more aggressive and effective industry matching programmes.
