Sarawak Youth DUN proposed to train and empower young leaders

TELLIAN assemblyman, Roston Valentine has proposed establishing a Sarawak Youth State Legislative Assembly (DUN) to give young people a greater voice in the state’s development.

He said the proposed platform could serve as a training ground for future leaders while encouraging youth participation in policymaking and governance.

Roston suggested that the Youth DUN could adopt a concept similar to the Malaysian Youth Parliament or models practised in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia and Ireland.

“Sarawak’s vast geographical size and diverse communities require a dedicated platform to bring together the voices of young people from urban, rural and remote areas.

“A suitable model would involve youth representatives from each state constituency, supported by community engagement and policy committees,” he said.

He said this when debating in support of the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 at the august House here today.

Royston believed the initiative could nurture capable future leaders, foster unity and generate practical proposals across various areas of development.

He said the platform should also provide opportunities for young people to contribute ideas and participate meaningfully in shaping Sarawak’s future.

To ensure its effectiveness, he proposed that every motion tabled in the Youth DUN be forwarded to the relevant agencies for consideration.

He said the process should include clear feedback mechanisms and monitoring of follow-up actions to ensure the proposals receive proper attention.

“With this approach, young people can play an active role as partners of the government in building a progressive and prosperous Sarawak,” he said.