The Sarawak Youth and Sports Department (JBS) is targeting a five per cent increase in participation for its youth and sports programmes this year.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the target would be driven through wider outreach efforts involving both urban and rural communities across the state.
“Moving forward, JBS targets a five per cent increase in participation, with a strategic focus on bridging the gap between urban and rural communities,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (May 19).
He said JBS Sarawak recorded strong participation last year through 230 programmes involving 652,853 participants.
He added this year, several major programmes had been lined up including National Youth Day in Bau, National Sports Day in Betong and Fiesta Rakan Muda in Mukah.
He said statewide participation last year was boosted by community sports activities, fitness programmes and youth initiatives organised by JBS Sarawak.
Meanwhile, 31 Rakan Muda Clubs will also be established across all parliamentary constituencies in Sarawak to implement the “10 Rakan Muda Lifestyles” initiative.
“Inclusive programmes such as Basic Swimming Skills Training for the B40 group, people with disabilities and senior citizens are also being prioritised,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that a RM1.2 million grant had also been allocated to strengthen local youth and sports associations throughout Sarawak.
