A total of 297 applications have been received by the Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Ministry for the Sarawak Youth Startup (SYS) programme, nearing its target of 300 applicants.
Deputy Minister Datuk Ripin Lamat stated that the applications are currently under further screening.
“As a matter of fact, 15 per cent of the participants are from the Chinese community, and we hope to see greater participation from Chinese youth in the future. That being said, the response to the startup programme has been very encouraging so far.”
Ripin made this statement during a press conference following Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah’s winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) media room, Tuesday (Nov 19).
When asked about the possibility of additional slots for the programme, Abdul Karim stressed the importance of the first SYS trial.
“As time goes on, we will request more allocations for SYS from the state government,” he added.
Earlier in his speech, Abdul Karim stated the SYS programme was launched by Nov 13 to address skill gaps and funding avenues for emerging entrepreneurs in Sarawak.
“Targeting youth aged 18 to 40, the programme offers a structured framework focused on skill enhancement and innovation across four phases.
“The inaugural cohort, scheduled from Dec 7 to 14, will engage 300 participants and 45 strategic partners providing resources, mentorship and guidance.
“The SYS programme begins with an eight-day intensive course, followed by a business startup and internship phase lasting one to six months.”
He then added that participants will also receive ongoing monitoring and evaluation to support their growth.
“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to fostering a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem in Sarawak, and we look forward to its positive impact on our young entrepreneurs.”
