KUCHING: The Kelab Anak Asal Bukit Saban (KAABS) Cultural Night 2026 has emerged as a key platform to bring together Bukit Saban youth based here.
Bukit Saban assemblyman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas cultural programmes this this play a crucial role in strengthening identity besides helping Bukit Saban residents living outside the area maintain family connections and community spirit.
He said the event, themed “Celebrating Culture, Unity and Friendship,” also served as a bridge between the community and the leadership, enabling dialogue on development initiatives and government policies.
“Programmes like this are not just about bringing the community together, but also serve as a platform to strengthen unity, foster closer ties, and ensure that the customs and cultural heritage of the Dayak community are preserved and passed on to the younger generation,” said Uggah, who is Deputy Premier, when officiating at the event on Saturday night.
He urged youth to take full advantage of opportunities under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), including free tertiary education in Sarawak-owned institutions, as well as pathways in entrepreneurship, green energy, artificial intelligence, digital economy and human capital development.
“Youth are Sarawak’s most valuable asset. Seize every opportunity provided by the government to improve knowledge, skills and competitiveness because the future of this state depends on the active participation of the younger generation,” he said.
On development progress, Uggah said the government continues to prioritise infrastructure and economic growth in Bukit Saban, including efforts to promote Bukit Sadok as a heritage-based tourism attraction.
He added that the Sungai Paku Bridge, now completed, will be officiated at the end of July, improving connectivity and economic activity in the area.
The Sarawak government has also approved RM25 million to upgrade the Ulu Rimbas Road, alongside RM1.5 billion allocated under the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), with about RM200 million per constituency.
Nearly RM9 million has also been set aside for agricultural development in Bukit Saban, focusing on oil palm and pepper to boost rural income.
“The main focus of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government is to strengthen the people’s economy and increase household income. Do not miss the opportunities provided through various government programmes and initiatives, as all of them are designed to help the people enjoy a better quality of life,” he said.
He also called on KAABS to continue organising youth-focused programmes in education, sports, entrepreneurship and character building.
