KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is supporting the Montfort Youth Training Centre (MYTC) in its mission to assist underprivileged youth.
This support aligns with the Sabah youth policy, under which the state government has pledged RM16.89 million to implement various youth programmes, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
"MYTC offers these youth opportunities to break the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential," he said.
Hajiji's statement was delivered by state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun during MYTC's 25th-anniversary charity dinner at a resort yesterday.
"The state government also recognises the challenges faced by the Montfort Youth Training Centre, including its lack of permanent income sources.
"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," said Hajiji.
Hajiji also urged MYTC to look ahead by embracing new technologies, fostering innovation, and strengthening industry collaborations.
He expressed satisfaction with MYTC's plan to revive the girls' programme, which aligns perfectly with the state's efforts to promote gender equality and empower women in both economic and leadership roles.
Montfort's board of governors chairman, Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, highlighted the financial demands of MYTC's success.
"Every year, the institution needs RM3.2 million for the main campus and about RM350,000 for each of the hostels in Kiulu and Sandakan," he said.
"The youth we nurture often come from the lower strata of society, including those left behind by mainstream education, some with learning disabilities, and the underprivileged from remote areas who need support to continue their education," said Bernard.
Looking ahead, he said MYTC will embark on initiatives aligning with the government's push to enhance vocational training with entrepreneurial elements.
He said Montfort aims to prepare young men with essential skills for the future, enabling them to become self-reliant and innovative contributors to the economy.