Kota Kinabalu: Luyang Assemblyman Samuel Wong welcomed the State Government’s plan to establish a dedicated Creative Economy Unit next year, describing it as a timely and important step towards strengthening Sabah’s creative industry and unlocking greater opportunities for local talents.
Responding to the announcement by Minister of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, Wong said Sabah possesses an abundance of talent across various sectors, including music, film, performing arts, traditional crafts, design, photography, digital content creation, fashion, culinary arts, cultural tourism, and sports.
“These talents are more than individuals pursuing their passions. They are Sabah’s most valuable assets and our front-line ambassadors in showcasing Sabah’s culture, identity, traditions, creativity and spirit to the world,” he said.
Wong said Sabah’s development should not rely solely on its natural resources, but also on its human capital and creative potential.
“Sabah is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty, but we are equally rich in stories, culture, heritage, languages, creativity and unique talents. These are strengths that cannot be replicated elsewhere, and they must be nurtured and projected confidently to the world.”
He noted that for many years, numerous talented Sabahans have left the State in search of better opportunities in Peninsular Malaysia or overseas due to limited pathways for growth at home.
“While we are proud of their achievements elsewhere, it also reflects a long-standing challenge of talent migration. Sabah cannot afford to lose more talents. We need to create an environment where Sabahans can build their careers, pursue their dreams and contribute to the State without having to leave home.”
Wong agreed with Nizam’s emphasis on building the right ecosystem and said talent development must go beyond simply identifying gifted individuals.
“We need a complete talent ecosystem that starts from talent identification, nurturing, mentorship, training and skills development, all the way to providing opportunities, platforms and market access.”
He said schools, community organizations, local councils, industry players and government agencies should work together to discover talents from an early age and provide them with structured development programmes.
“Talent is like a seed. Without proper support, it may never realise its full potential. With the right guidance, training and opportunities, it can grow into something extraordinary.”
Wong stressed that creating platforms for exposure is equally important.
“Many young Sabahans do not lack talent, they lack opportunities. We need more showcases, performances, exhibitions, competitions, festivals, creative markets and collaborative programmes that allow talents to be seen, appreciated and connected with wider audiences.”
e further proposed the establishment of a Sabah Talent Development Framework to coordinate efforts across ministries, educational institutions and industry stakeholders.
Among the initiatives he suggested are the creation of a Sabah Talent Registry to systematically identify and promote local talents, mentorship programmes involving experienced industry professionals, creative entrepreneurship grants, startup support schemes, and stronger partnerships with national and international organisations.
He also proposed the development of creative hubs and talent centres not only in Kota Kinabalu but all districts throughout Sabah, ensuring that young people from rural and interior districts have equal access to opportunities.
“Creative opportunities should not be concentrated only in major urban centres. Talent exists throughout Sabah. Every young Sabahan deserves the opportunity to develop their potential regardless of where they come from.”
Wong added that Sabah’s creative economy should be closely linked with tourism promotion efforts.
“When tourists visit Sabah, they should not only experience our landscapes but also our music, films, cultural performances, local cuisine, traditional crafts and creative products.
By integrating local talents into tourism initiatives, we create economic opportunities while strengthening Sabah’s identity and brand globally.”
At the same time, he stressed that sports talents must be given equal attention.
“Sportsmen and sportswomen are also talents. They represent Sabah on national and international stages and play a vital role in uplifting Sabah’s name and inspiring future generations.”
He called on the State Government to strengthen support for athletes by providing assistance for participation in competitions, training programmes, coaching opportunities and talent development pathways.
“Whether the competition is large or small, whether the athlete comes from an urban or rural background, and regardless of the sporting discipline, deserving talents should be given the opportunity to compete and grow.”
Wong noted that many talented individuals eventually abandon their passions due to financial realities.
“Talent alone cannot pay the bills. Many gifted Sabahans are forced to give up what they truly love because opportunities are limited and they need to earn a living. That is why building a sustainable ecosystem is so important.”
He said the objective is not only to develop industries but also to ensure talents can survive, continue growing and remain passionate about their craft without being forced to abandon their dreams.
“When talents see hope, they stay. When they stay, industries grow. When industries grow, Sabah becomes stronger.”
He emphasized that retaining talent is ultimately an investment in Sabah’s future.
“Retaining talent is not just about keeping individuals. It is about preserving dreams, creating opportunities for future generations and building a stronger Sabah.”
“Today, we invest in our people. Tomorrow, our people become Sabah’s greatest brand, our strongest ambassadors and our proudest achievement. They will bring Sabah’s stories, culture and spirit to the nation and to the world.”
“The future of Sabah lies in the hands of Sabahans, and it is our responsibility to ensure they are given every opportunity to realise their full potential.” Wong said.
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