KUCHING: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof has approved an allocation of RM60,000 next year to support the Kem Ihya Ramadan programme for students in the Petra Jaya parliamentary constituency.
He said the allocation would be channelled after the organisers submit a complete working paper, noting that the programme plays an important role in strengthening Ihya Ramadan activities while shaping the character and leadership of young people.
The programme is supported by the Petra Jaya Parliamentary Service Centre, the Sarawak Islamic Religious Department (JAIS), Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak, WLWS Resources and Yayasan OBYU.
Fadillah said programmes such as ‘Kem Ihya Ramadan’, which was attended by 96 students from 10 schools around Kuching over three days, should be continued as they help nurture a generation of capable youths with the potential to become future leaders.
“Leadership formation begins from the heart. If the heart is nurtured and shaped well, a person will be able to lead himself, his family and positively influence society,” he said at the closing of the 11th ‘Kem Ihya Ramadan’ 2026 at the Sarawak Centre of Technical Excellence (CENTEXS) today.
Fadillah added that values such as compassion and mutual care must be instilled from a young age, in line with Islamic teachings.
“Our faith is not complete unless we care for others as we care for ourselves. Programmes like this reflect that compassion, especially in guiding young people to become responsible leaders in the future,” he said.
He also reminded participants that young people must not only rely on guidance from parents and teachers, but should also develop the discipline to guide themselves towards goodness.
“At the end of the day, leadership begins with leading ourselves. When we are able to guide our own actions and values, we will be able to guide others as well,” he said.
Fadillah said society today faces growing challenges due to rapid technological development, including artificial intelligence (AI) and the widespread use of smartphones.
“Technology brings many benefits, but if it is misused, it can also bring harm. Among the challenges we see today are negative online influences such as online gambling and content that distracts young people from their responsibilities,” he said.
He stressed the importance of spiritual education and strong moral values so that youths have the inner resilience to face such challenges.
“Technology should be used to seek knowledge and information. If used wisely, it can become a tool that strengthens our education and personal development,” he said.
Fadillah also encouraged participants to take part in community initiatives such as Sarawak Volunteers in the future, describing it as a platform that provides valuable experience and helps build independence and leadership.
“Through platforms like Sarawak Volunteers, students can gain exposure, develop confidence and learn to contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
