YOUTHS should be drivers of change rather than mere beneficiaries of development efforts, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) Minister said youths should be empowered to engage in decision-making process to nurture their leadership abilities and create avenues for their impactful involvement in tackling global issues.
“My ministry believes by empowering our youths, Sarawak can harness their potential to drive innovation and social progress, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and inclusive future for Sarawak.
“We are proud to inform that our Sarawak’s Youth Associations have successfully implemented programmes such as MYSED Go Rural @ Awat-Awat, Lawas; Jelajah Belia Sarawak @ Kanowit; Jum Sungkei @ Bintulu, Miri and Kuching which involved 17,150 youths,” he said in his his ministerial winding-up speech today.
Abdul Karim added that MYSED plans to conduct the first-ever youth social experiment, Projek Bee Orang Baik (Projek BOB), led by Kelab Belia Bagas Bandar Bintulu (BAGAS).
The project aims to promote kindness, eastern cultures, and values of empathy and compassion throughout Sarawak.
Hhe said Hari Belia Sarawak (HBS) is also set to return with a range of activities themed ‘Neon and Beach Party’ in Mukah Division in October 2024.
“This year’s theme focuses on 5G concepts — Growth Mindset, Global Connection, Glorious Tradition, Grateful Society, and Go Green Awareness — aligning with the mission toward World Class Youth 2030. The event will include the presentation of Anugerah Belia Sarawak 2024 to recognise youth and organisations contributing significantly to the state,” he added.
Abdul Karim said MYSED is also preparing youth to harness Sarawak’s abundant natural resources for sustainable energy production while preserving the environment.
Engagement programmes, he said, include advocating sustainable policies, youth participation in climate-related projects, promoting green energy, raising awareness about climate change impacts, and fostering sustainable environmental development.
Efforts such as Program Komuniti Belia: Pemindahan Ilmu Mengurus Sisa Dapur Menjadi Produk Kompos dan Sabun, Leave No Trace Behind Programme, Rakan Muda Bumi, and the upcoming Rainforest Youth Summit are aimed at raising awareness, changing youth mindsets, and nurturing future leaders focused on sustainability, he added.
