Kota Kinabalu: Outstanding student achievements in leadership, volunteerism, community service, and academic-related activities were recognised at the 27th Student Affairs and Alumni Awards (Mahepa) 2026 held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Saturday.
State Minister of Education, Science and Technology Datuk James Ratib, who was the guest of honour and represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, officiated the ceremony. A total of 15 award categories and seven special appreciation awards were presented to recognise students and student organisations for their contributions and achievements across various fields.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor said Mahepa serves as a platform to acknowledge students who have excelled in multiple disciplines while also contributing to the university’s development and reputation.
He said UMS students organised 1,054 activities in 2025 through the Student Representative Council (MPP), Residential College Student Welfare Committees (Jakmas), faculty associations, as well as various student clubs and societies.
According to him, students also recorded notable achievements in literature, entrepreneurship, sports, volunteerism, and religious competitions at state, national, and international levels. Among the highlighted achievements were successes in the 2026 World Stage Poetry Competition (Sapena), four awards at the Higher Education Ministry Entrepreneurship Awards 2025, and strong performances by UMS athletes in international and varsity-level competitions.
Meanwhile, James said the State Government remains committed to developing human capital through various education assistance schemes and youth development initiatives.
He said programmes such as Budi, Sentosa, Bayu, Baik and Bistari were introduced to ensure Sabah students have access to higher education opportunities.
James also urged university students to strengthen their leadership, communication, critical thinking and digital skills, while exercising caution in evaluating information and avoiding unverified claims.
