MBKS witnesses inaugural Children’s Council swearing-in for 18 members

KUCHING (Aug 10): The Kuching City South Council (MBKS) has witnessed a historic moment in the inaugural swearing-in ceremony of 18 children assuming their roles as members of the Children’s Council at the chambers of MBKS here today.

The ceremony was led by the children’s council president, 17-year-old Megan Lim, with Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Kuching South mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, and his deputy Dato Dr Zaiedi Suhaili in attendance to witness the event.

In his speech, Dr Sim said the establishment of MBKS’ children’s council was part of the state government’s inclusivity policy, as well as a commitment to the Child-Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI).

“The children’s council is to empower our child councillors, giving them opportunities to participate by providing policymakers with varying perspectives on government policies,” said Dr Sim.

Dr Sim, who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, explained that the newly appointed MBKS child councillors, with ages ranging from 11 to 17, have direct access to policymakers at MBKS to share ideas and opinions on the administration of Kuching city.

Meanwhile, in his remarks, Wee said the child council was the first to be established in Borneo, reflecting MBKS’s commitment to foster civic engagement among the youth.

“This is not merely a ceremonial event; it is a powerful milestone in MBKS’s journey towards a more inclusive government. The voices of our young are essential in shaping the future of our beloved city,” he said.

Additionally, Wee highlighted that the child council also provided a real opportunity for the city’s youth to gain invaluable experience in working alongside elected representatives and advisory bodies.