Kota Kinabalu: Students must move beyond basic technical skills and embrace modern technology and innovation to help strengthen Sabah’s timber industry, said State Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk James Ratib.
He stressed that the sector can no longer rely on conventional methods in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, where competitiveness depends on technological advancement and creativity.
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“We cannot remain with traditional approaches. A shift in mindset is needed through the adoption of modern technology and innovative thinking to ensure our timber products remain competitive in the global market,” he said. James said this after officiating the Wood Technology Festival 2026 (WOODFEST 2026) at Politeknik Kota Kinabalu on Wednesday.
He noted that Sabah’s timber industry has long been a key contributor to the state’s economy, but emphasised that innovation is now critical to sustain its growth and relevance.
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