KOTA KINABALU: The State Government has allocated RM16.89 million to implement  various youth programmes involving leadership and skills development to empower  youth in line with the Sabah Youth Policy.  

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said the State Government is  committed to youth development and acknowledged the challenges faced by institutions  like Montfort Youth Training Centre (MYTC), which lack permanent income sources and  is committed to supporting them.  

"The federal and state governments have introduced various initiatives to ensure  organisations like MYTC could benefit, including increased budget allocation for  Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to enhance  resource availability and expansion of scholarship and bursary schemes for students,  amongst others," he said. 

The Chief Minister said this at the MYTC's 25th Anniversary Charity Dinner in Magellan  Sutera tonight.His speech was delivered by Finance Minister Datuk Seri Panglima  Masidi Manjun. 

He said the State Government was committed to supporting MYTC's mission to assist  underprivileged youth by offering them opportunities to break the cycle of poverty and  for them to reach their full potential. 

He said it is a significant milestone for the MYTC to celebrate 25 years in educating  youths.  

"As Sabah’s economy continues on positive growth, youth development plays a critical  role in our region's economic advancement. MYTC’s graduates are not just skilled  workers, they are individuals who significantly contribute to our society’s growth and  progress.  

"They demonstrate that technical and vocational education is as valuable and powerful  in shaping a better future for Sabah's youth. 

"Montfort’s character formation programme is particularly noteworthy. Its mission to  empower youth and harness their full potential, especially those from the interior and  those who have dropped out of mainstream education, is commendable.

"This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya’s (SMJ) aspirations  and underscores the State Government’s commitment to youth empowerment by  providing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and contribute  significantly to the state's economy and society," he said. 

Hajiji also called upon MYTC to look ahead and keep abreast with the world of work's  rapid evolution, which is driven by technological advancements and changing economic  landscapes.  

"Our educational institutions which include TVET must adapt to these changes to remain  relevant and effective. I am confident that MYTC will continue to lead the way in this  regard.  

"By embracing new technologies, fostering innovation, and strengthening industry  collaborations, MYTC can continue to provide vocational education that meets the needs  of both the present and the future," he said. 

Hajiji was also pleased to note MYTC's plan to revive the Girls’ Programme, which  aligned perfectly with the state’s efforts to promote gender equality and empower women  in both economic and leadership roles.  

"By focusing on the development of young women, MYTC is contributing to a more  inclusive and balanced socio-economic landscape in Sabah," he said. 

Hajiji puts on record the State Government's gratitude to the Brothers of St. Gabriel,  MYTC Board of Governor, Management and staff of MYTC for their dedication and hard  work that has made this institution a pillar of the community and provided the youth with  a second chance.  

"To the trainees and alumni, you are the pride of MYTC and the driving force behind its  success. Thank you too, to all industry partners and sponsors for their unwavering  support. In addition, our gratitude to Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, who has significantly  contributed to this mission," he said. 

Ends