Sabah government prioritises youth concerns
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is committed to ensuring that young Sabahans' voices are heard and their concerns addressed through meaningful action, says state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
Speaking at the 'Destinasi SMJ Anak Muda 2.0' forum at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) on Saturday (May 24), he told over 500 students that their issues are not being ignored, especially when it comes to education, job opportunities, and basic infrastructure,
"We are listening. The concerns of our youth, whether about water, education, or job opportunities, are not falling on deaf ears. The government is committed to delivering real, tangible solutions," he said.
He said that the government values youth perspectives and is serious about implementing policies that directly benefit younger generations.
The open dialogue is organised by the Institut Kerjasama Kerajaan dan Rakyat (Ikrar) under the Chief Minister's Department and provided a platform for students to express concerns and share ideas on development matters.
Among the topics raised were water supply issues on campus, Sabah's economic direction, student welfare, and the evolving job market.
The session, moderated by Ikrar director Azrul Ibrahim, was well-received, with many students appreciating the opportunity to engage directly with a senior government leader.
Masidi also encouraged youth to remain informed and actively involved in shaping the future of the state, adding that their energy and ideas are vital to Sabah's progress.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hype Malaysia
7 hours ago
- Hype Malaysia
AirAsia To Launch Kota Kinabalu To Fukuoka Route Via Taipei This August; Promo Fares Up For Grabs!
Pack your bags, wanderlusters! AirAsia Malaysia has further strengthened connectivity from its second-largest hub, Kota Kinabalu, with the launch of a brand new fifth-freedom route to Fukuoka, Japan via Taipei! Starting from 15th August 2025, AirAsia will be operating the additional route connecting Kota Kinabalu to Fukuoka through a short stopover in Taipei with daily flights. The new route underscores the airline's commitment to expand its Kota Kinabalu hub, enabling more Sabahans to fly beyond ASEAN and offering more travel options for globetrotters seeking new adventures. Taipei is one of AirAsia's key virtual hubs within its extensive network. The new route provides more flexibility for Malaysians looking to explore more destinations in Japan, offering an alternative to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Fukuoka via Don Mueang (Thailand), operated by Thai AirAsia. Dato' Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, said: 'We are excited to launch this new fifth-freedom flight from Taipei to Fukuoka, marking another significant milestone as we continue to explore new opportunities from our Kota Kinabalu hub. Since reinstating the Kota Kinabalu-Taipei route three years ago, we have flown more than 130,000 guests, and the numbers continue to grow. This launch aligns with our vision of connecting people across Asia, enhancing regional connectivity and boosting tourism opportunities. 'With this new route, Sabahans now have more choices and flexibility when travelling to their preferred destinations, while supporting the state government's vision of positioning Sabah as a top tourism destination. We remain committed to facilitating air travel for everyone through enhanced connectivity, convenience and accessibility.' In celebration of the launch, AirAsia is offering special promotional fares for flights from Kota Kinabalu to Fukuoka starting from just RM609* all-in one way, whereas flights from Fukuoka to Kota Kinabalu are also available from JPY21,390* all-in one way. Guests can book their flights from today onwards until 8th June 2025, for travelling between 15th August 2025 and 29th March 2026, available on the AirAsia MOVE app and Flight Schedule Between Kota Kinabalu (BKI) & Fukuoka (FUK) Via Taipei (TPE): Fukuoka is a popular destination in Japan where tradition meets modernity. The city is renowned for its iconic Tonkotsu ramen and serves as a paradise for foodies. It is also the best go-to destination for nature lovers, especially as the city offers tranquility for a perfect getaway trip – stroll through the Ohori Park or the Fukuoka Castle and immerse yourself in the city's rich history. From 15th August onwards, AirAsia will operate flights to 13 international destinations across Asia from the Kota Kinabalu hub, with a total of 79 flights weekly, further solidifying the hub's position as Malaysia's second-largest hub. *All-in fares are quoted for one-way travel only, including passenger service charge, regulatory service charges, fuel surcharges, and other applicable fees. Terms and conditions apply. What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
Borneo Post
8 hours ago
- Borneo Post
Upko Youth welcomes full trust in PH Sabah, vows support for state polls
Felix KOTA KINABALU (June 4): The decision by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to grant full autonomy to Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) leadership ahead of the upcoming state election (PRN) is seen as timely and appropriate. UPKO Youth chief Felix Joseph Saang said the move reflects the federal coalition's confidence in the capabilities and political maturity of PH Sabah under the leadership of its chairman, Datuk Ewon Benedick. He said the decision acknowledges the importance of allowing local leaders to devise strategies based on the political landscape and sentiments of Sabahans. 'This strategic autonomy approach not only strengthens the party's grassroots machinery but also facilitates negotiations among component parties on seat distribution and field cooperation,' he said in a statement on Tuesday. 'Sabah's political context is distinct and complex. The mandate given to PH Sabah allows for more inclusive, localised and targeted strategies. 'Our focus is on Sabah's development, improving rural infrastructure, tackling poverty, and safeguarding the state's rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),' he added. Felix said the recent official meeting between Anwar and the PH Sabah leadership marked a significant milestone in state-level political cooperation. 'With the mandate, Ewon is now positioned to drive strategic partnerships among coalition parties in Sabah. 'I am confident he will be able to coordinate preparations for the PRN, including negotiations with allies and campaign planning,' he said. As Sabah Harapan Youth leader, Felix said he would fully support the initiative and work to engage young voters while continuing to advocate for the rights of Sabahans. 'Youth will play a vital role in outreach efforts. We are ready to work with any party that respects and upholds Sabah's rights. 'This initiative aims to strengthen PH's position in Sabah ahead of what is expected to be a closely contested state election, with priority given to development, state autonomy, and the people's welfare,' he said.
Borneo Post
8 hours ago
- Borneo Post
Call for State autonomy against unfair gas cylinder rules
David Ong KOTA KINABALU (June 4): Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Vice President David Ong strongly urges the Sabah State Government to exercise its constitutional autonomy and refrain from implementing the Federal Government's new gas cylinder regulations that burden small business operators and the rakyat. Under the new regulation, eateries are required to switch from subsidized household gas cylinders priced at RM26 to commercial purple cylinders costing RM70 — a staggering 169% increase. For small restaurant operators using 100 cylinders per month, this translates into a monthly cost jump from RM2,600 to RM7,000 — a crippling RM4,400 rise. This measure comes at a time when businesses are already struggling with compounding cost pressures from SST hikes, rising electricity tariffs, and the minimum wage adjustment to RM1,700. Ong stressed that Sabah is one of Malaysia's largest natural gas producing States, contributing significantly to the nation's energy wealth. It is fundamentally unjust for the Federal Government to supply gas at higher costs to the very state that produces this resource. Current evidence shows East Malaysian consumers already face price discrimination. Gas cylinder deposits cost RM90 in Sabah/Sarawak compared to RM80 in Peninsular Malaysia – highlighting an ongoing pattern of inequitable treatment. 'We urge the Sabah State Government to utilize its constitutional powers to safeguard the welfare of its people from federal policies that disproportionately affect Sabahans. The State should immediately pursue special arrangements with the Federal Government to secure preferential pricing for gas used in Sabah, just as East Malaysians have been granted continued diesel subsidies in recognition of regional cost differences,' Ong said in a statement. Additionally, he said the State should implement targeted exemptions or support schemes to protect hawkers, coffeeshops, and small eateries until a fair and regionally appropriate policy is established. Sabah inherently faces higher transportation and distribution costs due to its geography and limited supply networks. At the same time, many food operators here earn less than their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia yet bear higher operational costs, he pointed out. Despite these disadvantages, he said Sabah continues to contribute significantly to Malaysia's gas revenue via royalties and taxes — yet receives no preferential benefit. This disparity must end. 'The burden of rising gas prices will inevitably lead to higher food costs, hurting all Sabahans — particularly low-income families and threatening the viability of small eateries. The timing of enforcement under 'Operation Gasak' is especially insensitive, as it comes during a period of widespread economic strain. 'I call upon the GRS Government to defend the interests of Sabahans by exercising the State's rightful autonomy. Such powers exist precisely to counter federal policies that fail to reflect the realities and challenges of Sabah. 'Sabah must not be punished for being a gas-producing State. We demand fair treatment and urge immediate action to suspend the implementation of these regulations in Sabah until just and practical solutions are put in place,' Ong added.
