SIBU: The Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) State-Level Convention 2026 is putting youth leadership, mental resilience and humanitarian preparedness at the centre of its agenda, bringing together about 200 young cadets from branches across Sarawak.
Hosted by the MRCS Sibu Branch, the convention being held here on Saturday, is more than a state-level gathering of cadets—it is a platform aimed at preparing a new generation to think, act and lead when communities are confronted by emergencies and humanitarian challenges.
In his opening remarks at the convention, MRCS Sibu Branch chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee said humanitarian service demanded far more than enthusiasm, stressing that volunteers must possess sound judgement, teamwork, discipline and the ability to remain calm when others are facing difficulties.
He described the convention as an important opportunity for young cadets to broaden their experience, build friendships across branches and develop a deeper understanding of what it means to serve humanity.
“Humanitarian service requires more than enthusiasm. It requires a strong mind, good judgement, teamwork, discipline and the ability to remain calm when others are in difficulty,” he said.
Chua said the approximately 200 cadets attending the convention should not regard themselves merely as participants, but as the future generation of humanitarian volunteers.
The convention features seminars, team-building activities, sharing sessions and discussions focusing on mental wellbeing, leadership and humanitarian action—areas increasingly important in preparing young volunteers for real-world emergencies.
Addressing the delegates, Chua described the convention as a “crucible for leadership”, where young members could test their ideas, learn from one another and develop the confidence needed to respond to humanitarian situations.
He urged the cadets to lead with integrity, learn with humility and build relationships that go beyond the boundaries of individual MRCS branches.
“The resilience and innovative ideas you bring forth today will shape the humanitarian landscape of Sarawak MRCS tomorrow,” he said.
For Chua, the significance of the Red Crescent uniform also goes beyond appearance or organisational identity.
He reminded the cadets that wearing the uniform carries a responsibility to be ready to assist people who may be frightened, injured, isolated or otherwise in need.
The convention, he said, could also serve as a foundation for experiences that may prove valuable long after the event ends.
A lesson learned during a workshop, a friendship formed between cadets from different parts of Sarawak, or the ability to remain composed under pressure could eventually make a difference during a real emergency.
Chua also expressed appreciation to the MRCS Sarawak Chapter, organising committee, trainers, facilitators, officers and volunteers whose efforts behind the scenes made the convention possible.
He encouraged the young participants to make full use of the opportunity by asking questions, challenging themselves, sharing experiences and learning from fellow cadets.
More importantly, he urged them to enjoy the experience of serving alongside one another.
The convention carries the theme “Together We Are Unstoppable with Stronger Minds, Smarter Humanitarian Action,” reflecting its emphasis on developing not only technical preparedness, but also mental resilience, leadership and collaborative problem-solving among young humanitarian volunteers.
With cadets converging on Sibu from branches throughout Sarawak, the convention offers a glimpse of the MRCS’s next generation—young people being equipped not simply to wear the Red Crescent uniform, but to understand the responsibility that comes with it.
As the convention unfolds, its central message is clear: humanitarian readiness begins long before an emergency happens. It begins by developing people who can think clearly, work together and step forward when others need help.
Among those present were Deputy Minister of Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, who represented Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian as guest of honour; MRCS Sarawak Chapter director Chai King Sing; and MRCS Sarawak Chapter Assistant director Ng Pei Sze.
