Youth Must Be Continuously Nurtured As Future Leaders - Abdul Karim

SARIKEI, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- The youth play an essential role in state and national development and must continue to be nurtured as future leaders, said Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Speaking at the closing of the Kembara JOM 2.0 Borneo Zone 2 Programme at Rumah Panjang Kanyan, Nyalak Ladong, Pakan, here today, he said the youth must be given space to think independently, progressively and with vision so as to cultivate a generation capable of continuing the leadership of the state and the country.

“If we want to see the future of the state or country, we should look at the youth today. I am pleased to see them so aware of social issues, leadership and the nation’s future,” he said.

Abdul Karim also praised the organisation of the programme, saying it successfully brought together youth from various backgrounds, regardless of race or political affiliation.

“Such programmes help foster closer ties between central and state ministries, relevant agencies and the youth. More importantly, we can share aspirations and listen to their views,” he added.

The Kembara JOM 2.0 Borneo Zone 2 programme, organised by the Youth and Sports Ministry, gathered youth from Pakan, Julau and surrounding areas through various activities, including dialogues, town hall sessions and the sharing of their aspirations.

Abdul Karim expressed his hope that such programmes could be held in other parts of Sarawak.

He said his ministry remained committed to providing support and cooperation in the organisation of such programmes in the future.

The programme was also attended by Youth and Sports Deputy Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, and Julau Member of Parliament Datuk Larry Sng Wei Shien.

--BERNAMA