Kota Kinabalu: Students must move beyond basic technical skills and embrace modern technology and innovation to strengthen Sabah’s timber industry, said State Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Datuk James Ratib.
He said the industry can no longer depend on traditional methods in today’s fast-changing global environment and requires a shift in mindset through the application of modern technology and creative innovation.
“We need a shift in mindset through the application of modern technology and creative innovation so that our timber products remain competitive in the global market,” he said after officiating the Wood Technology Festival 2026 (Woodfest 2026) at Kota Kinabalu Polytechnic here on Wednesday.
James said the festival plays a key role in exposing students and the public to wood-based technology while promoting high-quality, value-added timber products.
He added that while the timber industry remains a major contributor to Sabah’s economy, stronger TVET-industry collaboration is needed to produce skilled workers and prepare students to lead the sector in future.
