BINTULU: Sarawak’s youth have been urged to shape the state’s future as leaders and innovators, harnessing their skills, creativity and sense of identity to drive progress and achieve global recognition.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg called on young Sarawakians to embrace discipline, integrity and a strong sense of identity as essential traits for the state’s continued development.
“Prepare yourselves with discipline and self-respect. Always uphold your identity as Sarawakians. Say it with pride – Sarawak comes first,” he said at the Sarawak Youth Week 2025 held at Bintulu Civic Centre today.
He stressed that future leaders must possess vision, analytical skills, and the ability to manage the state’s resources wisely, warning that without capable and forward-thinking leadership, Sarawak could lose its direction and stability.
“If future leaders cannot analyse our strengths or chart the right path, our state will suffer. We must know how to govern wisely and avoid excessive debt, for too much debt means high interest and less for development,” he added.
The Premier encouraged young people to make the most of their time and knowledge, contributing their talents and ideas to the community.
“Use your time well. Use your knowledge to benefit the community. If you do this, Sarawak will one day stand alongside developed nations like Sweden, Finland and Norway – small, yet strong and influential,” he said.
He likened Sarawak to a “chilli padi”- small in size but powerful in intellect and influence – expressing confidence in the potential of the state’s youth to propel Sarawak onto the global stage.
Urging a balance between ambition and humility, he called on young Sarawakians to embrace innovation, uphold integrity, and build upon the state’s achievements.
“This is our aspiration: for the youth to lift Sarawak’s dignity and make it the most advanced region in this part of the world,” he said, wishing them success and resilience in the years ahead.
