A young participant greets Abang Johari upon his arrival at the Bintulu Civic Centre. Looking on at left is Abdul Karim. – Photo by Sarawak Public Communications Unit
BINTULU (Oct 19): The future of Sarawak rests on the courage of its youth to forge a new path and serve the state, said Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
While the state government has introduced numerous youth-oriented policies, he emphasised that true success hinges on young people’s willingness to become agents of change and drive progress in the economy, society, culture, and technology.
“You are the future leaders who must continue the legacy of leadership with integrity and vision,” Abdul Karim said in his closing speech at the Sarawak Youth Week 2025 celebration, at the Bintulu Civic Centre today.
The event, themed ‘Belia Aspirasi Kita’ (Our Youth, Our Aspirations), was officially closed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Abdul Karim, also the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, urged youth to utilise their time wisely, seize opportunities, and participate in value-added programmes.
“The theme signifies that youths are the hope of the nation, the community, and our collective future,” he said.
“They are the inspiration and backbone of the state, a generation that dares to dream, competes, innovates, and leads Sarawak toward greater excellence.”
The week-long celebration featured a diverse lineup of activities, including a youth expo, leadership forums, talent competitions, and a marketplace.
Abdul Karim highlighted that such events are vital as they empower young people to voice their views, express creativity, and build confidence.
“Workshops, forums, and training sessions also equip them with new skills in leadership, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship while connecting them with government, industry, academia, and non-governmental organisation (NGOs),” he added.
To ensure widespread engagement, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) has organised roadshows across 33 districts, reaching over 25,000 youths.
“This initiative brings the government closer to the grassroots, especially in rural and remote areas, ensuring no youth is left behind,” he said.
Other key initiatives include the Sarawak X-Tive programme, which promotes healthy living and unity through sports, and the Sarawak-Sabah-Johor-Melaka Youth Integration Programme, launched in 2023 to strengthen national solidarity through cultural exchange.
Abdul Karim also underscored the critical role of sports and entrepreneurship in shaping youth identity and resilience.
He pointed to Sarawak’s achievements in boxing, Muay Thai, and cycling, as proof that proper guidance, young Sarawakians can excel on national and international stages.
He also cited government agencies like Tabung Ekonomi Gabungan Anak Sarawak, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation, Pusat Pembangunan Kemahiran Sarawak, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia & TEKUN Nasional, Institut Keusahawanan Negara, and SME Corp Malaysia (Sarawak Branch) that provide support for young entrepreneurs, particularly those contributing to the green economy.
Shifting focus to growing social challenges, the minister issued a stern warning about drug abuse, cybercrime, and negative social media influences.
He revealed an alarming statistic, where approximately 6,151 individuals in Sarawak were involved in drug abuse between January and March 2025.
“I urge all youths to stay away from drugs, for it destroys your health, mind, and morality,” he reiterated.
“Remember, real strength lies not only in your energy but in your values and integrity.”
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