SERIAN: Sarawakian youths have been urged to continue upholding the spirit of unity and togetherness, in line with Sarawak’s identity as a state known for its harmony.
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said that young people play a critical role in upholding the state’s image as a symbol of unity and shaping the nation’s future leadership.
“Sarawakian youths, who come from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, are a reflection of our unique harmony.
“These are the values and strengths we must preserve to remain strong.
“As we know, our youths are a valuable national asset and deserve attention so they can be part of the holistic nation-building process, one that fosters peace, harmony and patriotism,” he said.
Abdul Karim said this when officiating at the state-level National Youth Day 2025 at Serian Conference Center (SCC) here on Saturday.
On the same note, he stressed that the character of today’s youth reflects the kind of leadership Sarawak will have in the future.
He acknowledged that nurturing someone to become a capable leader is no easy task, but said it can be achieved through collaborative efforts involving all parties.
As such, he said that the Sarawak Government remains committed to empowering youth through continued initiatives in collaboration with the National Department of Youth and Sports, SABERKAS and the Youth and Sports Ministry.
He also called on youths across the state to be role models and embrace the National Youth Day 2025 theme ‘Yakin Boleh’, which reflects the government’s confidence in the younger generation.
“If you want to see what the future of the country and the state will look like, look at the youth today.
“This year’s theme symbolises the spirit of seizing opportunities while we are still young, echoing the concept of ‘youth for youth’ in driving national development,” he added.
During the event, Abdul Karim presented the Anugerah Perdana Belia Negara Peringkat Negeri Sarawak 2025, an award that recognises individuals and youth organisations for their contributions to youth development in the state.
Junior Chamber International (JCI) Jalan Tanjung received the highest recognition in the youth organisation category, taking home RM10,000, a trophy and a certificate of appreciation.
Kelab Belia Perkasa Taman Marina was awarded second place with RM5,000, while Kelab Belia Pekan Pakan received RM3,000 for third place.
Both also received trophies and certificates.
In the male individual category, Shahradhi Libiki Iskandar Ridhuan received the top honour with RM3,000, a trophy and a certificate.
He was followed by Muhammad Zhariff Azhari, who received RM1,500 for second place, and Aaron Nagai, who received RM500 for third.
For the female individual category, Rapunzel Anthony Jamuh received the top honour, followed by Suzanne Lee Min Lih and Toh Fong Ming in second and third place, respectively.
