James Ratib Uec Recognition In Sabah Opens Doors To Scholarships And State Jobs

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Sabah Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk James Ratib.-BERNAMA PICKOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government has outlined several benefits for United Examination Certificate (UEC) holders in the state, said Datuk James Ratib.
The state education, science, technology and innovation minister said the recognition aims to provide tangible advantages for UEC holders in Sabah.
"The state government has outlined several benefits for UEC certificate holders, including official recognition by the Sabah government, which allows the certificate to serve as a basis for various forms of assistance," he said during his winding-up speech at the state legislative assembly sitting.
James added that UEC holders will also be eligible to apply for Sabah government scholarships, seek admission to state-owned educational institutions, and be considered for recruitment into the state public service and related agencies, subject to proficiency in the Malay language.
Commenting on the newly renamed ministry, which now includes education, James said that while Sabah's education sector falls under federal jurisdiction, the role of the state-level ministry is to oversee, coordinate, and facilitate projects and resources allocated by the federal government.
Replying to Tham Yun Fook (Warisan–Likas), James likened the role of the new ministry to the state health portfolio he previously oversaw.
"Back then, we didn't have full authority. Our role was to coordinate and monitor, not execute.
"But through consistent engagement with the federal authorities, we managed to secure more clinics and resources. That is the model we aim to replicate for education," he said.
The minister said Sabah's state representatives, acting as liaisons with the federal government, must actively raise local issues.
"If we stay silent, nothing will come our way. As the state's representatives, we must advocate for our people and ensure that federal support aligns with Sabah's actual needs," James added.
He said that although the ministry does not have full executive power, it can voice Sabah's educational concerns and priorities to ensure federal projects and funding are properly implemented. - NST

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