Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT)’s opening of its Sabah branch will help enhance quality human capital; create opportunities and offer choices for Sabahans to pursue tertiary education. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said TAR UMT's initiative to expand its wings to Sabah, will directly assist in developing economic and educational opportunities.

"Human capital development is one of the three main thrusts of our economic roadmap, the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ). Young People are our greatest asset. By investing in education, training, and skill development, we aim to prepare them for future and bigger challenges and opportunities," Hajiji said at the opening of the TAR UMT Sabah branch on 24 February 2024 at Alam Mesra, Kota Kinabalu.

Sabah has allocated RM475 million to strengthen human capital development in 2024; and RM16.89 million to implement Sabah’s Youth Leadership Development Programme.

"Youth development schemes such as the Sabah Youth Entrepreneurs Success Scheme (SYABAS) will continue to further support young entrepreneurs in starting and strengthening their entrepreneurial ventures," the Chief Minister said.

“Various programmes and initiatives for youths are on-going, such as the Student Consultative Council (MPPS) comprising public and private higher learning institutions’ student leaders from all over the country. The Chief Minister said it is important, too, that quality tertiary education is available for the youths in Sabah.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor signing the plaque in conjunction with the grand opening of TAR UMT Sabah branch. TAR Education Foundation Board of Director Chairman Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong is on second right; Hajiji doing Chinese calligraphy; and the CM receiving a portrait of himself made up of a collage of more than 400 pictures of the TAR UMT students' activities.