Projek SUARA 2.0 highlights youths changemakers

KUCHING (Dec 9): Some 60 youths from across the state gather here for the three-day Projek SUARA 2.0 run by Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak (YPS).

Themed ‘Youth As Changemakers’, the programme serves as a platform for the participants to talk about key topics such as the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, as well as matters and challenges pertaining to the theme.

YPS deputy chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan, in his keynote address, described the programme as ‘an excellent platform for the young people to learn, reflect and deliberate on key issues affecting Sarawak’.

“It provides them with an avenue to contribute ideas, offer constructive feedback and participate in policy simulations that help deepen their understanding of the policymaking process.

“This is indeed an excellent forum for young minds to shape the future of our state,” said the former deputy chief minister.

Dr Chan noted that the state government continued to work tirelessly to formulate policies meant to promote development, unity and prosperity for all, but he also stressed that well-intentioned policies could only become effective when they are understood and embraced by the people, especially the youths.

“Our young Sarawakians must play an active and collaborative role in shaping the state’s future by engaging meaningfully with government initiatives.

“You have a unique role to play.

“By appreciating, supporting and collaborating with government initiatives, we become partners in shaping a Sarawak where continuous development and sustainable progress are lived realities.”

Dr Chan further emphasised that through collective effort, government policies could be translated into visible, sustainable and meaningful impact that benefits all Sarawakians.

Calling upon youths to take ownership of their role, he urged them to learn, engage, contribute, and lead by example.

“Together with the government, we can build a resilient, forward-looking and harmonious Sarawak – a place where opportunities are abundant and every individual has the chance to thrive.”

Meanwhile, YPS chief executive Datu Aloysius J Dris, in his welcoming speech, described Projek SUARA 2.0 as ‘a milestone initiative set to help chart the foundation for meaningful inter-generational dialogue and youth-led change in the state’.

“This will go down in history as one of our strategic initiatives that sets us on a transformative path, creating a platform for inter-generational dialogue and collaboration while empowering youth to be agents of change.”

Aloysius also expressed hope that the engagement would equip undergraduates – seen as future leaders and drivers of change – with the tools to think critically and develop informed perspectives.

SUARA – an acronym for ‘Strength through Unity, Alliance and Responsive Action’ – is one of YPS’ key strategic efforts this year, and it marks a significant step in empowering young Sarawakians to influence mindsets and contribute to impactful, long-term solutions for the state.

Among the highlights of the programme is a dialogue with a senior state leader, where the participants have the opportunity to present reflections, policy ideas, and recommendations drawn from their earlier discussions.