Kota Kinabalu: Sabah’s future economic growth will depend on its ability to empower young leaders, embrace technology and attract talented Sabahans working overseas to return home, according to retired banker and adviser to the State Government for the Sabah Economic Advisory Council (SEAC) and the Institute for Development Studies (IDS), Datuk John Lo.
Lo said the State’s long-term success rests with the younger generation, who are better positioned to adapt to rapidly evolving technologies and emerging industries.
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“We believe that the future of Sabah lies with our young Sabahans, not with those of us who are already nearing the end of our careers.
“When we look at the future, Sabah will face many challenges — domestically, nationally and globally. Technology is developing very rapidly around the world.
“We need young people who can adapt, embrace technology and use it to drive Sabah’s economy forward,” he said during the Daily Express Sabah Matters podcast.
Lo said one positive development had been the increasing involvement of younger Sabahans in leadership positions within government-linked companies (GLCs) and State agencies.
He credited engagements between youth groups and the State Government with helping create opportunities for younger professionals to contribute to policymaking and leadership.
“The impact of those policy recommendations can be seen today, with many younger Sabahans being appointed to key positions,” he said.
He cited appointments in organisations such as Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation, Sabah Energy Corporation and Sabah Mineral Management as examples of a shift towards younger leadership.
“There is now a strong focus on moving away from the traditional approach to appointments and giving younger Sabahans greater opportunities,” he said.
Lo also observed a growing trend of Sabahans returning from overseas as economic opportunities in the State improve.
He said many Sabahans living in countries such as Singapore and Australia were recognising the positive changes taking place in Sabah and choosing to return home to contribute to its development.
“Some of them have already returned. Quite a number are back and contributing.
“I see many young Sabahans returning to start cafés, launch digital platforms and build businesses. Quite a few are also involved in the oil and gas industry,” he said.
Lo said returning professionals and entrepreneurs could form the nucleus of a new generation that helps shape Sabah’s future economy.
“I think they will eventually form the core group of Sabahans who will help shape the State’s future,” he said.
However, he stressed that continued progress would require political stability and cooperation among leaders.
“Politicians must work together, whether they are in government or in opposition.
“They must have one purpose in mind, and that is to serve Sabah properly. We cannot go back to the bad old days,” Lo said.
