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Borneo Post
18 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
IEM Sabah Branch marks golden jubilee in grand fashion
Tun Musa, with Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, Mohd Yaakob, Chiang and IEM Sabah committee members cutting the anniversary cake. KOTA KINABALU (June 15): The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch commemorated its 50th golden jubilee with a grand celebration, honouring five decades of engineering excellence, leadership and impact in the state of Sabah. The prestigious event was graced by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Musa bin Haji Aman, and Toh Puan Datin Seri Panglima Datuk Hajah Faridah binti Haji Tussin, whose attendance lent added prestige to the historic evening. Under the theme '50 Years of Engineering Excellence (1975–2025),' the celebration brought together engineers, dignitaries, government leaders and partners from across Malaysia to reflect on the profound journey of IEM Sabah — from humble beginnings in 1975 to its current role as a vital force in the state's professional and socio-economic landscape. In his opening address, Ir. Ts. Mohd Yaakob Jaafar, chairman of IEM Sabah Branch, expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of past and present leaders, committee members and members. 'This celebration marks not only the passing of time but the enduring spirit of a professional community dedicated to building Sabah's future,' he said. 'Our strength lies in our unity, our passion, and our shared commitment to engineering progress for the betterment of society.' Yaakob, who joined the IEM Sabah Branch in 2009 and has served as chairman since 2024, highlighted the Branch's successful hosting of CAFEO 42 in October 2024 as a recent milestone that showcased Sabah's engineering leadership on the ASEAN stage. He reaffirmed IEM Sabah's commitment to promoting professional excellence, enhancing public understanding of engineering, and inspiring the next generation of engineers. Ir. Prof. Dr. Jeffrey Chiang President of IEM, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Sabah Branch, noting its steady growth to nearly 2,000 members and its consistent excellence in representing the engineering profession. 'This golden jubilee is more than a celebration — it is a tribute to resilience, professional integrity, and public service,' he remarked. Reflecting on Sabah's unique challenges as a geographically vast and ecologically rich state, Dr Chiang acknowledged the dedication of committee members who have balanced full-time careers with voluntary service to the profession. 'Your commitment is a beacon for younger generations and a model for our future,' he said. He also connected the occasion to IEM's national mission, noting the Institution's recent 66th anniversary themed 'ESG Engineering for a Greener Tomorrow.' He emphasized the importance of sustainability and innovation, and the Sabah Branch's key role in driving these principles at the state level. Ir. Nicolas Lim, organising chairman of the golden jubilee dinner, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the many individuals and communities that have shaped Sabah's engineering landscape over the decades. 'Fifty years ago, we had limited tools but unlimited ambition. Today, we see the results all around us — in the roads, bridges, schools, and communities that have grown stronger through engineering,' he said. He paid homage to Sabah's pioneering engineers and the spirit of innovation that has defined the state's engineering progress, highlighting the profession's crucial role in balancing development with environmental stewardship and cultural respect. All three speakers echoed a common vision — one of continued growth, deeper collaboration with government and industry, and unwavering commitment to uplifting lives through engineering. From infrastructure and innovation to energy and safety, IEM Sabah Branch is poised to continue being a catalyst for change. The evening concluded with a call to action for engineers, especially the younger generation, to carry the torch forward into the next 50 years — embracing emerging technologies, nurturing new talent, and remaining steadfast in the pursuit of excellence. As Sabah continues to grow, the IEM Sabah Branch stands proudly at the heart of its progress — a community of professionals building not just structures, but legacies. Also present at the dinner was Deputy Chief Minister cum Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.
Borneo Post
30-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
SMJ and CAFEO 42 propel Sabah's sustainable future
(April 30) As Sabah continues its transformation toward a more competitive, sustainable and inclusive economy, the role of engineering in shaping this future is undeniable. From infrastructure development to digitalization, renewable energy to environmental conservation, engineering lies at the core of every major achievement. This progress is built on a people-centric strategic framework — the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan — under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor. In 2024, Sabah proudly hosted the 42nd Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organizations (CAFEO 42) in the beautiful capital city of Kota Kinabalu. This prestigious event not only marks a milestone in technical and professional achievements but also stands as a testament to the Chief Minister's commitment to elevating Sabah's stature on the international stage and fostering regional collaboration through engineering. Allow us to highlight the profound connection between engineering progress and state leadership. This is also a sincere tribute and expression of gratitude to the Chief Minister for his unwavering support, which ensured the resounding success of CAFEO 42 and continues to drive the state's advancement through the comprehensive SMJ policies. Engineering as a Driver of Economic Development Engineering is not merely a profession — it is a catalyst for transformation. In Sabah, with its complex geography, scattered communities, and abundant natural resources, engineering provides practical solutions to: Build and maintain resilient infrastructure, Connect rural areas, Manage water supply and waste sustainably, Generate renewable energy, Protect ecosystems, And enhance disaster resilience. Under the SMJ framework, the role of engineers is further strengthened through government policies emphasizing: Efficient project implementation, infrastructure expansion in underdeveloped areas, digitalization, technical and vocational education and public-private sector collaboration. This approach is not only timely but critically necessary in addressing global economic challenges and increasingly evident climate change impacts. SMJ Vision: A Realistic Strategic Framework The Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan, introduced and spearheaded by Hajiji, is the most comprehensive development plan in Sabah's modern history. Anchored by three core pillars — Agriculture and Food Industry, Industrialization and Manufacturing, and Tourism — the SMJ also encompasses cross-sectoral themes such as: Infrastructure modernization, Green technology and sustainability, Empowering grassroots economies, Human capital development, Transparent and integrity-driven governance. For the engineering community, SMJ offers clear direction and extensive career and contribution opportunities. Under this plan, numerous projects are actively underway, including: Upgrading rural roads in remote areas like Pitas and Beluran, providing clean water to isolated villages, renewable energy projects such as solar and micro-hydro, digital infrastructure development to expand high-speed internet access, promotion of green economies and smart industries to attract investments and create quality jobs. Effective implementation reflects the state administration's capability to translate vision into tangible action. CAFEO 42: A Historic Achievement for Sabah and ASEAN Engineering In 2024, the IEM Sabah Branch was selected to host CAFEO 42, a premier conference among ASEAN engineering organizations. The decision to host CAFEO in Kota Kinabalu resulted from the strategic encouragement and strong support of the Chief Minister himself. CAFEO 42 brought together hundreds of engineers, policymakers, educators and industry leaders across ASEAN. The event's success was evident through: Technical sessions addressing challenges and solutions in infrastructure, energy, smart technology, and disaster mitigation; exhibitions showcasing local and international engineering innovations; professional networking forums between engineers and Sabah institutions; student engineering competitions to inspire younger generations; professional recognition for outstanding regional engineers. The keynote address by the Chief Minister during the opening ceremony left a profound impact on attendees. His emphasis on regional collaboration, sustainable development, and technical education aligns perfectly with current needs. The IEM Sabah Branch extends its highest appreciation and gratitude to the Chief Minister for his full support, exemplary leadership, and commitment to making CAFEO 42 in Kota Kinabalu a success. This achievement is a source of state pride and a pivotal milestone for a brighter engineering future. Engineering Education and Local Talent Development Among the most crucial investments in state development is human capital. SMJ places significant emphasis on technical and engineering education through: Strengthening TVET institutions and polytechnics, revamping STEM curricula to align with industry needs, sponsorships and incentives for technical training, industry collaboration for student internships. These steps ensure that Sabah's new generation of engineers possesses relevant skills, builds local capacity, and reduces reliance on external expertise. This is the essence of sustainable empowerment. Sabah as a Model for Engineering-Driven Sustainable Development Today, Sabah is emerging as a model state leveraging engineering and technology to become Borneo's green energy hub, develop as a regional engineering excellence centre, establish smart industrial and logistics corridors, bridge urban and rural areas inclusively through engineering. None of this would be possible without bold and forward-thinking leadership of the Chief Minister's ability to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and unify all sectors under a shared vision is truly commendable and deserving of high praise. Leadership, Collaboration, and Appreciation As members of the engineering community, we are proud to support the SMJ Vision and contribute to Sabah's transformation. We have witnessed firsthand the policy changes, implementations, and community engagements that have delivered real impact. Specifically, we extend our highest appreciation to Chief Minister,Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor, for recognizing engineers' vital role in state development, Empowering local talent and technical education institutions, commitment to sustainability and green growth, and the monumental success of hosting CAFEO 42 in Kota Kinabalu — an event etched in Sabah's engineering history. Together under the SMJ framework, with engineering as the core and leadership as the guide, we are confident Sabah will continue advancing — stronger, smarter and more united than ever.
