Sabah’s newly established Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation may not hold direct authority over education policy, which remains under the federal Ministry of Education. However, as Datuk James Ratib stated, it can play a vital role in advocating for the state’s needs on a national platform.

During the conclusion of the debate at the Sabah State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, James acknowledged that education is primarily a federal responsibility. He emphasized that the core function of the state ministry is to coordinate and monitor federal education projects that are implemented in Sabah.

Role of the State Ministry

“Education powers are not with us. Our role is mainly to coordinate and monitor projects channeled by the federal government in Sabah,” James explained.

As a state minister, he participates in federal-level meetings with other Exco members three to four times a year, providing an opportunity to voice concerns for Sabah.

James highlighted that having a state-level education portfolio equips Sabah with a platform to directly address longstanding issues with federal decision-makers. He argued that without a strong voice, the state risks being overlooked.

Advocacy for Education Improvement

“If we do not ‘bark’, we will not be given,” he candidly stated, drawing on his previous experience managing healthcare.

He shared that previously, only two or three dilapidated clinics could be repaired each year. However, after persistently raising the issue at the federal level, Sabah secured over 100 upgrading projects in just two years.

James indicated that a similar strategy would now be applied to education, specifically focusing on the ongoing issues of dilapidated schools and enhancing the overall quality of education within the state.

Digital Initiatives in Education

On the topic of digitalization, James pointed out federal initiatives aimed at integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into classrooms. This includes the AI-Powered Classroom concept currently piloted in 11 schools across the nation. In Sabah, SMK SANZAC has been selected for this pilot program, which commenced in July 2025.

The program features strategic partners such as Apple and Sasbadi, and James mentioned plans to propose its expansion to all district education offices in Sabah, contingent on criteria like trained teachers and adequate resources.

Addressing concerns from Likas assemblyman Tham Yun Fook regarding overlapping roles among the federal Ministry of Education, the Sabah Education Department, and the new state ministry, James reiterated that the state ministry does not replace existing structures.

Calls for Greater Funding

“We do not have full power. Our power is to coordinate and monitor, but more importantly, to voice Sabah’s problems so they can be considered at the federal level,” he clarified.

Tham later urged the state government to utilize the ministry to advocate for increased allocations, including direct funding to accelerate the repair of dilapidated schools, aiming for zero dilapidated schools in Sabah. He also suggested creating a dedicated unit for higher education matters to attract reputable foreign universities to establish campuses in the state.

Silam assemblyman Datuk Yusof Apdal, a former deputy higher education minister, supported this proposal, recommending the establishment of a higher education department branch in Sabah.

Collaborative Efforts for Progress

In response, James acknowledged the severe condition of dilapidated schools and reiterated that while the ministry lacks formal powers, its strength lies in constant advocacy.

“This ministry may have no power, but we give it power by speaking up,” he stated, calling for bipartisan cooperation to advance education in Sabah.

“Even though Likas is from the opposition, for the sake of our children and the future of this state, let us work together. I am particularly interested in the proposal on higher education,” he concluded.

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