KUCHING: Young people must verify information before presenting it as fact and take responsibility for what they say.
The advice comes from Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya.
He said critical thinking was crucial to integrity because decisions should be based on facts, principles, and truth rather than personal interests or external pressure.
“We must argue based on facts, and those facts must be checked before they are accepted and communicated as true.
“This is the foundation for becoming a person of integrity. We are responsible for what we say and for the facts we present,” he said when closing the Sarawak Premier’s Cup Integrity Debate Competition 2026 held at the Waterfront Hotel yesterday (Aug 11).
Dr Juanda said social media users should avoid reacting impulsively to online updates and comments due to the fear of missing out (FOMO).
“We may comment on anything, but we must do so prudently, courteously and responsibly. All these actions shape our personal values,” he said.
He urged young people to have the courage to defend the truth and speak out when they encountered wrongdoing.
However, he stressed that courage must be supported by knowledge, wisdom, and proper conduct.
“Courage is needed to express an idea. Without courage, an idea in our minds may simply disappear.
“But that courage must be based on facts, knowledge, and wisdom. We must speak at the appropriate place and time while always observing proper conduct,” he said.
Dr Juanda said the strength of an argument was determined by the accuracy of its facts and reasoning rather than the volume of the speaker’s voice.
“The strength of an argument does not lie in the loudest voice.
“There are speakers who speak softly, but their words touch the heart because their arguments are based on accurate facts, strong reasoning, and sharp thinking,” he said.
He added that disagreements should not lead to hostility, and that criticism should not turn into an insult.
“Differences should build harmony. Criticising does not mean insulting, and criticism must be conveyed using respectful language,” he said.
Dr Juanda also warned that effective communication skills could be harmful if not guided by integrity.
He cited scammers as an example of individuals who used persuasive language to deceive victims, including young people, senior citizens, university lecturers, and banking professionals.
“Someone may possess excellent speaking skills, but without integrity, those skills can be misused to deceive others.
“Scammers are able to manipulate people partly because they possess good language and communication skills but use them for dishonest purposes,” he said.
Dr Juanda said debate training could help young people assess information, identify weak arguments, and defend their positions rationally.
He added that the Sarawak Premier’s Cup Integrity Debate Competition 2026 demonstrated how messages about integrity could be delivered through an approach relevant to younger audiences.
Dr Juanda urged the participants to continue reading useful material, thinking critically, asking questions, and expressing their views.
“Make integrity your compass in life, truth your principle, and trustworthiness your responsibility in every step you take,” he said.
