The Institute for Development Studies (Sabah) or IDS is an autonomous, non-profit making research organisation. Established by the Sabah State Government on 1 August 1985, IDS is devoted to carrying out policy and problem-oriented research on socio-economic and public administrative development issues. IDS also serves as a think tank to the Sabah State Government. IDS was incorporated as a company limited by guarantee on 1 April 1986. Prior to its incorporation, the Institute functioned under the name of the Institute for Public Policy Analysis (IPPA).

Vision

“To be a premier research institute in Malaysia on development issues”

Mission

“To assist the Federal and State Governments in meeting the needs and aspirations of the people through research and analysis of development issues based on integrity, professionalism and excellence”

Objectives

1. To promote and develop research-based decision making in government with regard to policy formulation and implementation.

2. To conduct problem-solving research on administrative and socio-economic development and submit policy proposals to the government for consideration.

3. To analyse and evaluate policy proposals submitted by the public and present recommendations to the State Government for possible implementation.

4. To organize seminars, forums and discussions with the aim of tapping public opinion on problems and issues which can affect socio-economic development in Sabah and maintain a high quality information system.

Organisational Structure

The organisational structure of IDS consists of the Board of Directors, the management, research and supporting staff. The Board shall consist of not more than 12 members of which six, including the Chairman, shall be appointed by the Chief Minister of Sabah. Other Board Members shall be elected at the Institute’s Annual General Meeting. The main function of the Board is to formulate policies and guidelines under which IDS should operate.

The Executive Director is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Institute. He is being assisted by other senior officials comprising associate directors, research directors and heads of supporting units

Membership

The Memorandum and Articles of Association of IDS provide for the admission of 1,000 members. Only Malaysian citizens are eligible to become members of the Institute. Non-citizens may be admitted as associates members but they shall have no voting rights and shall not be eligible to hold any office. The Board shall have full discretion regarding the admission of members to the Institute

Funding Sources

The main funding sources of the Institute are (1) Grants from the Sabah State Government, (2) Grants from international funding agencies, and (3) Sale of IDS Publications.

Institute for Development Studies (IDS), Sabah