MIRI: Sarawak’s young people must play a leading role in preserving the state’s social harmony and rejecting extremism and anything that could divide its multicultural society, said Minister for Transport Sarawak, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
Addressing more than 1,000 young Christians from churches across Miri at Youth Explosion 2026, on Friday night (Aug. 7), Lee said the state’s future ultimately depended on the generation that would inherit it.
“Do not allow differences to divide us. Learn to respect and understand one another and work together even though we come from different backgrounds,” he said.
Lee said Sarawak’s strength lay in its ability to bring together people of different races, religions and cultures who lived together peacefully and harmoniously.
He urged young Sarawakians to safeguard that strength and carry forward the spirit of unity as they prepare to take on greater responsibilities in society.
“When we talk about Sarawak’s future, we often talk about development, the economy, technology and infrastructure. All of these are important. But ultimately, Sarawak’s future depends on the generation that will inherit it,” he said.
“And that generation is you.”
Lee was speaking at the Youth Explosion 2026 programme organised around the theme ‘ZEAL’, which he said represented passion, determination and commitment.
He said young people should not measure success solely through academic achievement or career advancement, but must also develop strong character, integrity and a sense of responsibility.
He called on them to equip themselves with knowledge and skills while holding firmly to values such as compassion, honesty, discipline, responsibility and mutual respect.
“Education and a good career are important, but values and character determine how we use the advantages we have,” he said.
Lee described Youth Explosion as more than an annual gathering, saying it provided a platform for young people to develop leadership, friendship, volunteerism and character.
The programme also gave participants opportunities to meet new friends, exchange experiences, learn from one another and find inspiration that could shape their future, he said.
Lee urged the participants to use the programme as a springboard for positive action beyond the event.
He said the spirit of ‘ZEAL’ should be carried into schools, universities, workplaces, families, churches and communities, particularly through efforts to help others and contribute positively to society.
“Sarawak needs more young people who dare to dream big, are prepared to work hard, have integrity and are willing to contribute to society regardless of race or religion,” he said.
Lee also congratulated the organisers for bringing together more than 1,000 young people, describing the achievement as a reflection of the commitment and sacrifice of the pastors, church leaders, volunteers, sponsors and organising committee.
He urged the participants not to allow the enthusiasm generated by Youth Explosion to end with the programme.
“Be brave to dream. Be brave to try. Do not be afraid of failure. And when you succeed one day, do not forget to give back to society,” he said.
