TAWAU: The State Government will pursue strategic collaboration with other ministries to develop and expand the creative economy sector, particularly among youths.
Youth, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said the initiative aims to elevate Sabah’s creative industry by engaging young Sabahans in various fields.
“I have already conveyed our Ministry’s focus and direction to ensure well-structured programmes can be established with the participation of Sabahans,” he said.
Nizam said this to reporters after officiating the 2026 School Session Opening Programme and School Bag Contribution Distribution Ceremony at Kampung Titingan, here, recently.
He said his Ministry intends to provide guidance to those with abilities and skills in handicrafts, singing, dancing, makeup, digital fields and other creative areas.
“We want Sabahans to be self-reliant in generating income, and hopefully all programmes planned will not only be implemented within the next five years but also deliver positive impact.
“We also hope youth will no longer just spend time idling or engaging in unproductive activities, but be capable of generating income according to their respective talents or abilities,” he said.
The Ministry has proposed collaboration with other State ministries through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 plan, including providing training to become successful farmers or welders, as well as supporting those involved in the gig economy.
He said the new approach is expected to develop human capital toward overall public wellbeing, as this aspect had received less attention from his ministry previously.
Regarding the programme held in conjunction with the school season, the Apas Assemblyman said 100 underprivileged students and pupils benefited from the initiative.
“This type of programme is held every year, and this time we also received cooperation from local entrepreneurs, which we hope can ease the burden on less fortunate families,” he said.
