JCI hailed for role in nurturing Sarawak’s future leaders

KUCHING (March 15): Organisations such as Junior Chamber International (JCI) play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of leaders with strong values needed to ensure Sarawak’s continued progress, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He listed leadership development, teamwork and strong values as being essential, in view of the state entering a new phase of economic growth and prosperity.

“Sarawak in 2026 is already a different Sarawak from 2016.

“In the next five years, it will definitely be a different Sarawak again,” said the State Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government when officiating at JCI Batu Kawa’s third Installation and awards luncheon here yesterday.

Dr Sim also acknowledged JCI, which has more than a century of history and members aged between 18 and 40 from over 100 countries, as an important platform for youth leadership development, community service, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration.

Meanwhile, JCI Malaysia president Vincent Leng said the organisation aimed to increase its nationwide membership to 5,000 by the end of this year.

“JCI remains committed to nurturing young leaders through various platforms, while shaping active citizens capable of creating positive impact at both local and global levels.

“Through our four core areas of development, we help members grow in leadership, community service and business entrepreneurship while providing opportunities for youths to realise their potential,” he said.

Leng added that the organisation would focus on three key initiatives this year, starting with strengthening youth leadership development through its ‘Talent 360’ programme to build a strong leadership pipeline nationwide; followed by enhancing member engagement through

JCI Malaysia currently has 3,477 members nationwide.