KUCHING: Angkatan Zaman Mansang (AZAM) Sarawak continues to play an important role in supporting Sarawak’s development, particularly in the fields of tourism, the creative industry and performing arts.
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, said these sectors have now become among the key drivers of the state’s economy, in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
“Celebrations such as this go beyond recognition. They strengthen relationships, foster togetherness and contribute to Sarawak’s tourism and creative ecosystem.
“AZAM Sarawak has demonstrated how collaboration and community engagement can support inclusive and sustainable development,” he said.
He said this when delivering his speech at the AZAM Sarawak Pre-Christmas Gathering & Appreciation Night 2025 at Imperial Hotel here on Friday night.
He further described AZAM Sarawak as an important bridge between government policies and the people, helping to promote unity, creativity and inclusive participation across Sarawak’s diverse communities.
According to him, community-based tourism helps rural communities generate income while preserving local culture and heritage.
He also praised the role of AZAM Sarawak in empowering youth through the AZAM Young Souls (AYS) initiative, which has produced young people equipped with digital and creative skills.
“The use of digital platforms and creative content is crucial in promoting Sarawak to a wider audience while opening up new economic opportunities,” he said.
Snowdan commended AZAM Sarawak’s consistent role as a civil society partner supporting the state’s priorities, particularly in strengthening social cohesion, tourism, the creative industry and performing arts, which fall under his ministerial portfolio.
Meanwhile, AZAM Sarawak chief executive officer, Ali Suhaili, emphasised that meaningful and sustainable development can only be achieved through strong partnerships, trust and collective participation.
“This evening is not merely a celebration, but a reflection of the collective spirit that drives our Movement for Progress. AZAM’s achievements are built on collaboration between communities, partners, members and our dedicated team all working together to move Sarawak forward,” he said.
He added that AZAM Sarawak will continue to intensify its community development, youth empowerment and strategic communication programmes in 2026, supported by existing and new strategic collaborations, in line with Sarawak’s broader development aspirations.
“With continued support from our strategic partners, AZAM Sarawak will remain proactive, progressive and relevant in serving communities and contributing meaningfully to Sarawak’s development journey,” he added.
