KUCHING: Sarawakian youth have strong potential to penetrate the international market through creative and cultural content, provided they are confident, skilled and encouraged to step beyond the state’s borders.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak must prepare its young people not only to succeed locally, but also to represent the state on the global stage.
“Our youth who have talent and self-confidence can go on to become not only anak Sarawak, but anak Sarawak global. With their talent and confidence to represent the state internationally, Sarawak’s future is bright.
“Even if I am no longer the Premier, I am grateful and proud that our anak Sarawak have such talents,” he said.
He said this during the townhall session with the Premier on Tuesday night (Jan 13) at the Hikmah Exchange Event and Convention Centre.
Abang Johari cited the example of eight-year-old Sarawakian Dion Das Louis, also known as the ‘Little Bornean Birdie’, who gained international recognition in the United States through his award-winning performances in ethnic and traditional dance, particularly the Iban Ngajat, demonstrating how Sarawak’s cultural heritage can become a competitive strength globally.
He also highlighted a recent case involving a Form Two student from Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School (YSISS) who travelled to Japan and impressed local communities and scientists with an innovation involving durian waste.
“When he was in Japan, he showed how durian skin can be processed into new products that can be used by society. He was even quoted as saying: ‘My Premier in Sarawak said, don’t waste the waste, monetise the waste,’” he said.
Abang Johari said these were among several examples that showed Sarawakian youth were capable of explaining ideas confidently to international experts and gaining recognition on the global stage.
He also pointed to 12-year-old soloist Taylor Louise who will make history this July as the youngest Sarawakian to perform at New York’s Carnegie Hall after winning top honours at the New York International Music Competition.
“These young people are brave enough to face the international community. This shows that Sarawak’s future is bright,” he said.
