Hajiji: Sabah must reform education system to tackle future challenges

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah needs to transform the state's education system for students to better face the future challenges, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said the latest research data from 2024 revealed that only 65 per cent of students demonstrated good or excellent problem-solving skills, while just 72 per cent were confident in applying scientific knowledge in daily life.
"These figures show that we cannot afford to be complacent. Many students are still struggling to understand basic science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts.
"Therefore, educational transformation must become a top priority for all stakeholders," he said at the launch of the International Educational Research Conference "Astounding Research Innovation STEM Exploration" (ARISE) 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre here.
Hajiji added that teaching approaches rooted in research and innovation must be strengthened and mainstreamed to ensure Sabah's education system remains relevant, inclusive and competitive.
The chief minister also called on educators, educational institutions, researchers and policymakers to continuously explore and improve pedagogical methods to align with the digital era and current industry needs.
He added that ARISE 2025, which brings together more than 600 participants from Malaysia and abroad, including from the United Kingdom, Spain, the Philippines, China and Ireland, serves as a crucial platform for pioneering global educational collaboration.
He also said the state government has allocated RM41.75 million this year to the state Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry, as well as Sabah Skills and Training and Sabah Creative Economy and Innovation Centres, to implement training and skills empowerment programmes.
Among those programmes are Borneo Science Expedition, Sabah Science Carnival, Technology and Innovation Competitions, STEM Education Festival, Roboneo Programme and Sabah Screen Fest.
Hajiji said all are crucial platforms to cultivate students' interest in technology and engineering.

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