KUCHING: The Sarawak Initiatives (TSI) went live on Facebook on Sunday to talk about what Sarawakians, particularly the youth, want in the upcoming 15th general election (GE15).
Moderated by Prof Dr James Chin, a total of six panellists voiced their opinions and views on related issues including the fight based on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Chin noted that Malaysia has experienced a lot of political instability since 2020, and many are hoping for the soon-to-be-formed government to help the country get back on track for the future of the people.
A panel member, Ivan Ong, 20 commented on the significance of great leadership. He said a great leader must have a visionary dream and fully understand how to turn the dream into reality.
He added that candidates must have certain traits and show evidence of their leadership to gain the trust of the people.
“How should they become excellent leaders? One such trait is that they should be capable of making firm decisions.
“They also must be able to inspire others because it is hard to convince people. Well, it could be done if they have clear evidence and positive action.
“A leader must have vision; not only can they imagine the future, but they can express the dream,” he said.
Kenneth Lim, 34, on the other hand, stressed on healthcare issues.
Being a pharmacist and having been involved in the healthcare industry, he said Sarawak’s health system should be strengthened.
He particularly emphasised the access issues — waiting time, parking spaces, affordability of certain medications, and so on — that need to be addressed, although the issues have been brought up many times before.
“We really need to improve the finances, human resources, inventories and infrastructures.
“But we need to have a certain degree of autonomy to enable those things to be improved.
“Hence, we need to fight for our autonomy,” he said.
Another panellist, Syahrimin, dwelled on the lack of attention given to rural populations.
Looking back to the past 59 years, he said the development is unbalanced.
“In my personal opinion, the city areas are packed with development but in rural areas, the kids still need to climb up the hill for internet connection.
“Most of the resources are in rural areas. But where does the money go?
“Ironically, the state with the highest gross domestic product (GDP), is the third poorest in the country,” he lamented.
Meanwhile, Samuel Desmond Tuah hopes for a leader who is capable in dealing with inflation, youth unemployment and empowering the federation.
He said the people need to understand the value of Sarawak and what needs to be preserved.
“Japan has their dedicated workers, South Korean has amazing technology, but what is important to Sarawak?” he asked.
Meanwhile, Simon Hew wants Sarawak to be on par with other renewable energy producing countries such as Sweden, Iceland, New Zealand to name a few.
“We have done a good work on renewable energy but we are not fast enough compared to those countries. As young people, we can capitalise on eco entrepreneurships.”
Syahirah Sulastri Asman on the other hand, stressed on political education.
She was privileged to be on a research project that observes the youth’s perspectives, participation and political literacy in Kuching, Sibu, Miri and Bintulu.
Based on the findings, she said it is crucial for Sarawakian youth to increase their political literacy.
“The change of government in 2018 played a crucial role in the current political landscape.
“Young Sarawakians show a better political awareness in comparison to the generations before them.
“But they have been asking about who they should vote and do they vote the person or political party.
“Some even questioned on why would their vote matter and would it make a difference.”
Hence, she said, it is crucial for the youth to be well informed on the country’s political scenarios.
