KUCHING: Angkatan Zaman Mansang Sarawak (Azam Sarawak) and its youth wing, Azam Young Souls (AYS), reaffirmed their commitment to community empowerment and participatory communication through their active involvement in the Festival of Ideas @ Sarawak X Pesta Buku Borneo 2025, held from Oct 22 to 26, at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas).
The event, which brought together representatives from universities, creative industries, and civil society organisations, was officiated by Higher Education (KPPT) director-general Datuk Professor Dr Azlinda Azman.
The festival celebrated innovation, inclusivity, and the exchange of ideas; values that echo Azam’s long-standing mission to foster an informed and progressive society.
Azam’s participation reflected its guiding philosophy, The Movement for Progress, which focuses on empowering communities through knowledge, communication, and engagement.
The organisation showcased its key initiatives, including the Azam Sarawak Knowledge (ASK) Centre, a community learning hub that has provided free access to educational resources for students, NGOs, and the public for more than a decade.
Azam Sarawak chief executive officer Ali Suhaili said the organisation’s involvement was part of its mission to make knowledge and communication more accessible as a foundation for community growth.
“Azam Sarawak believes that knowledge and communication are the bridges to progress.
“Through the ASK Centre, AYS, and our digital publication PROGRESS, we continue to make learning accessible, empower young people, and encourage lifelong education.”
He added that the festival served as an important platform for Azam to engage directly with educators, students, and changemakers who share the same belief in the power of ideas and collaboration.
Ali also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the education, creative, and community sectors.
“Such partnerships ensure Sarawak’s youth remain globally competitive while staying rooted in local culture and values.”
Throughout the five-day festival, Azam Young Souls engaged visitors through interactive sessions and storytelling activities, encouraging students to explore self-development opportunities in communication, leadership, and lifelong learning.
Azam also showcased its publication legacy, including Utusan Pembangunan and Young Souls and The City, alongside its digital magazine PROGRESS (Prolific Regional Opportunities for Growth, Resilience, Empowerment, Sustainability, and Success Stories).
Since its launch in November last year, PROGRESS has reached over 3.5 million audiences, marking Azam’s successful digital transition and growing influence in development communication.
Ali said Azam will continue to collaborate with government agencies, educational institutions, NGOs, and the private sector to advance Sarawak’s development agenda.
“This festival reinforces our belief that progress is best achieved when people are informed, engaged, and connected.”
