KUCHING: Sarawakian youths are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to carry forward the state’s long-term development agenda.
Chief Political Secretary to the Premier, Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, expressed strong confidence in the capabilities of local students, describing them as both the current leaders and the inheritors of Sarawak’s future economic direction.
Speaking after closing the ‘Suara 2.0’ programme at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today, Fazzrudin said the state government’s ongoing initiatives – the hydrogen economy, green economy, Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Fund, and various development programmes under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 – will eventually be stewarded by today’s youth.
“They are talented, knowledgeable and more than ready to continue the legacy that has been built by our leaders. We are truly in good hands,” he said.
‘Suara 2.0’, also known as ‘Strength Through Unity, Alliance and Responsive Action 2.0’, brought together 60 youths from across Sarawak for three days of workshops aimed at exploring the state’s future direction.
Participants engaged in discussions on key matters such as the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and PCDS 2030, with Fazzrudin noting their clarity and confidence on these issues.
He said the youths have already contributed valuable insights during previous engagement sessions with state leaders, including the Premier, and some of their suggestions have been translated into policy.
Beyond contributing ideas, Fazzrudin stressed that youths will also play an important role in implementing Sarawak’s development roadmap.
“Our young people are not only future leaders; they are present leaders who will help drive the implementation of policies we have set,” he said.
He added that the state’s technical education ecosystem – including CENTEXS and industry-driven training initiatives – has been strengthened to prepare graduates for emerging sectors such as the green economy, PETROS’ CCGT project, and SMD’s new Catech AI initiative.
“These platforms ensure that Sarawakian youths have the expertise required to meet the demands of the state’s advancing industries,” he said.
Meanwhile, several suggestions were raised by participants during the programme, particularly regarding education support.
Among them were proposals to assist working individuals who wish to pursue further studies but face limitations.
Fazzrudin said these ideas will be brought to the attention of the Sarawak Government and the Premier.
He also thanked Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak for organising and funding the programme, saying it plays a key role in helping youths better understand state policies and their roles in shaping Sarawak’s future.
