KUCHING: The Sustainability and Renewable Energy Forum (SAREF) 4.0 has introduced a Youth Pavilion, creating a dedicated platform for young people to drive climate action and renewable energy initiatives.
Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Jefri Lias, said the Youth Pavilion marked a milestone for the forum, drawing more than 250 participants, including university students and young professionals from across Malaysia.
“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow — you are already the leaders of today,” he said in his opening address when officiating at the launch at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
He also noted that youth across the globe were driving impactful projects and innovative solutions to tackle climate change.
He added the Youth Pavilion served as a platform for youth to share ideas, expand knowledge and engage with peers, experts and sustainability leaders.
Touching on Sarawak’s renewable energy journey, Jefri highlighted the state had prioritised renewable hydropower since the 1980s, with about 60 per cent of its current power generation coming from hydropower, supported by gas and coal for reliability.
“Looking ahead, Sarawak aims to reach 10 gigawatts by 2030 and 15 gigawatts by 2035 through solar, cascading run-of-river hydro and waste-to-energy projects,” he said.
He also pointed to youth-focused initiatives such as the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS), which gathers young people across Asia to exchange ideas and build action plans for a sustainable future, as well as Sarawak Energy’s programmes promoting STEM among school students.
“These efforts show that sustainability is not confined to one discipline. There is room for every talent and passion to contribute to climate action,” he said.
Jefri also urged the youth to make the most of the opportunities presented at the forum.
The Youth Pavilion also features a line-up of highlights, including a fireside chat with Olympic medallist Datuk Pandelela Rinong, who will share her story of resilience and dedication, followed by a panel discussion with leaders from Malaya, Sabah, the Philippines and Indonesia on inclusive and just transitions in their communities.
