KUCHING: The Jom Baca Bersama 10 Minit programme involves students, educators and local leaders in a synchronised reading initiative aimed at promoting literacy as a cornerstone of leadership development and national progress.
In an inspiring morning filled with literature and learning, Kolej Datu Patinggi Abang Haji Abdillah hosted the nationwide programme Jom Baca Bersama 10 Minit (Let’s Read Together for 10 Minutes) here today to promote reading as a fundamental pillar in leadership development and nation-building.
In her keynote address, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations), Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, highlighted that fostering a culture of reading from a young age is key to shaping a wise, informed society.
“If we want to build a successful Sarawak, we must nurture a community that loves to read,” she said.
Sharifah Hasidah further remarked that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg exemplifies how leadership and innovation go hand in hand, crediting his ability to steer Sarawak forward to his steadfast commitment to reading.
“Our Premier is also an avid reader, and he likes reading materials about science, artificial intelligence (AI), and innovation.
“Therefore, he is able to lead Sarawak further ahead and it is all thanks to his love for reading,” she said.
Meanwhile, Kuching North City Mayor, Datuk Hilmy Othman, said reading fosters personal excellence and drives community and national progress, and in today’s digital age, with knowledge readily available, there is no excuse to remain uninformed.
“Reading is not only a pathway to personal excellence but also a catalyst for community and national progress.
“In this digital era, knowledge is at our finger tips. Therefore, we have no excuse not to be informed,” he said.
Additionally, he called on libraries to remain relevant and serve as centres of creativity, literacy, and lifelong learning.
“Make libraries places of discovery and inspiration,” he added.
Beyond speeches, the event featured creative performances, award presentations for reading competitions, and a symbolic ten-minute nationwide reading session, symbolising unity in the pursuit of knowledge.
