Become job creators, not job seekers

MIRI: Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat, has urged Sarawakian youth to become job creators rather than job seekers.

Speaking at the launch of the Youth Entrepreneurs Setup programme at Miri Civic Centre on Saturday, Ripin emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship and seizing opportunities.

“Our ministry provides facilities to support Sarawakian youth in their entrepreneurial endeavours.

“We also expose youths to the latest technology to help them manage their businesses more effectively. It is crucial to make entrepreneurship a culture, he said.

The Youth Entrepreneurs Setup programme featured three key components: a youth business idea competition, Go Digital ASEAN, and Youth Entrepreneurs Start-Up Malaysia.

The business idea competition saw participation from over 20 institutions of higher learning, both public and private.

“This is part of our premier vision to produce more youth entrepreneurs. We welcome all agencies to collaborate with us in the development of youth entrepreneurship,” he said.

Ripin stressed the importance of ‘knowledge investments,’ urging the youth to learn about entrepreneurship and how to apply that knowledge to enhance their businesses.

“It is essential to know if the business you want to enter is profitable. Investing in knowledge is crucial,” he said.

He also encouraged the youth to stay informed about various schemes available from different ministries that provide business opportunities.

“Seize today’s event to gain knowledge and network with one another,” Ripin concluded.

The deputy minister expressed his hope that Sarawak would achieve its target of producing a new generation of youth entrepreneurs, urging young people to continue their careers as job creators instead of job seekers.

“The opportunities in business are vast and can be very rewarding if pursued diligently,” he said.

The programme emphasised the Sarawak government’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among its youth, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in the competitive business world.