KUCHING: The collaboration between the state government and UNICEF on the ‘Child-Sensitive Integrated Social Protection Initiatives’ project shows their commitment to enhance social protection and nutrition for children in Sarawak.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the project aims to integrate social assistance for children with early childhood interventions and parenting education.
“UNICEF reports that for every dollar invested in early childhood development, there is a return of up to $12 in economic benefits.
“This is a compelling argument for why we must prioritise our investment in children. The future workforce of our region depends on the decision we make today,” he said.
He said this in his text of speech read out by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during the opening ceremony of ‘The 2nd Regional Social Policy Conference 2024: Prioritising Investment in Children in a Changing Region’ at Hilton Hotel here, today.
Abang Johari said he is committed to ensuring the policies are inclusive and sensitive to the needs of the poorest of the poor, the most marginalised groups, including rural communities, refugees and children living in urban slums.
“In Sarawak, we have made it a priority to engage with community leaders and communities to understand their unique challenges and develop tailored solution.
“By working together, we can create a more equitable society where every child should thrive,” he added.
Abang Johari said the countries across the East Asia and Pacific Region have implemented innovative social policies that have yielded positive results.
“For example, South Korea has adopted a “social investment state” mode, emphasising education, childcare, and employment support to address inequality and boost economic growth.
“This approach has been successful in enhancing workforce participation, particularly for women, and reducing child poverty,” he added.
He also urged related parties to harness their collective expertise and experiences to create actionable policies that will uplift communities and safeguard the rights of every child in the region.
Present during the opening ceremony were Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Social Wellbeing Research Centre (SWRC) University Malaya director Professor Datuk Norma Mansor and deputy regional director of UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office Dr Myo-Zin Nyunt.
