KUCHING: The Building Inclusive Community (BIC) programme has brought together more than 150 participants during its two-day run on Sept 29 and 30 at Dewan Kampung Muhibbah, Kapit.
Jointly organised by Angkatan Zaman Mangsang (AZAM) Sarawak, its youth wing AZAM Young Souls (AYS), and Youth Empowerment Stapok Sarawak (YESSarawak) with support from the Kapit District Office, the programme involved community leaders, youth representatives, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and stakeholders.
In a statement issued by ASAM Sarawak today (Oct 1), Works Minister and Kapit MP Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stressed the importance of community participation in development.
“Development should not only be seen as something that flows from the top down. Instead, it must be shaped together with the communities on the ground.
“The BIC programme provides a space not only for communities to attend, but also to be part of the planning process.
“When people feel a sense of ownership, they will be more motivated and responsible in ensuring its success,” he said, represented by his Political Secretary Ambrose Abong.
Meanwhile AZAM Sarawak chief executive officer (CEO) Ali Suhaili said inclusivity is the foundation of long-term progress.
“For AZAM Sarawak, inclusivity is not merely an aspiration, but the basis of future development.
“Through programmes like BIC, we aim to strengthen community resilience and ensure that no one is left behind in Sarawak’s development journey,” he said.
One of the key highlights was a townhall session titled “Inclusive Leadership Amongst Local Leaders”, which engaged village heads and grassroots leaders to discuss inclusive leadership approaches in local development.
The session also highlighted the importance of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 in supporting rural community growth.
Participants also engaged in interactive sessions and simulations that focused on grassroots youth leadership, community conflict management, and cross-sector collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, and development partners.
