Research Programmes

Our research programmes focus on empowering local entrepreneurs, preserving Sabah's rich biodiversity, and celebrating cultural heritage, all while combining academic expertise with practical solutions to support sustainable development throughout the State.

To achieve these goals, the Group conducts social and applied science research that meets both state and national requirements, collaborating with local institutions such as Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Sabah Forestry Department.

In the social science domain, key studies have examined the impact and employability of recipients of the Sabah State Scholarship Award of Excellence (ABCNS), revealing high success rates and strong alignment with the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan. The Pusat Kraftangan Sabah Entrepreneurship Programme (YS-RICH) has shown early promise in enhancing the incomes of craft entrepreneurs.

Another research initiative is a study aimed at identifying and documenting local delicacies from 40 different ethnic groups in Sabah. Once completed, the research will be published.

Under the applied science agenda, several impactful initiatives are being implemented to support sustainable resource management, scientific research, and community development. The Group efforts have led to the discovery of new mushroom species, the development of the species checklist, and the completion of several postgraduate theses.

Another significant initiative is the large-scale bamboo and rattan replanting programme, aimed at ensuring a sustainable raw material supply while uplifting the socio-economic status of rural communities. Supported by government agencies and guided technically by the Group, the programme is progressing well with ongoing studies focused on growth performance, sustainability and social impact.

Complementing these efforts, a short-term social impact study on the Raw Material Planting Project (PPBM) revealed immediate benefits for participants, particularly in terms of employment opportunities, income generation, and the development of craft skills.

Overall, the Group's integrated approach to research demonstrates a strong commitment to uplifting communities, preserving biodiversity, and supporting sustainable development in Sabah. By aligning its social and scientific research with state and national priorities, the Group is committed to making meaningful contributions to education, entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship.