KOTA KINABALU, July 30 -- Sabah is setting aside more than RM100 million for state scholarships this year as it expands efforts to develop a skilled workforce, including a new initiative to train more healthcare professionals in response to growing demand.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor said the Sabah State Government Scholarship (BKNS) allocation will cover existing recipients as well as new sponsorships for 2026, involving 2,182 students, with emphasis on strategic fields including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

"The state government is also expanding educational opportunities in the healthcare sector, with 30 Sabahans to be selected for a talent development programme covering the Diploma in Medic...