Students urged to prepare for future through education, resilience and responsible AI use

KUCHING: Students must prepare themselves for the future by embracing education, developing resilience and learning to navigate the challenges of an increasingly digital world, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof.

He said success required more than academic knowledge, stressing the importance of perseverance, adaptability and the ability to overcome difficulties in life.

“Life is not always about enjoying the good times. It is through difficulties and challenges that we learn, grow and prepare ourselves for the future,” he said.

Fadillah was speaking at the ‘Program Motivasi ‘Sedia Menghadapi Masa Depan’ event, held in conjunction with the special session ‘Dialog Bersama YB dan TPM’ at Dewan Taman Sukma here.

The programme attended by over 100 students from both respective Parliamentary and State constitutions P194 Petra Jaya and N7 Semariang was jointly organised by P.194 Petra Jaya and N.7 Semariang, and implemented by the Biro Pendidikan PBB Cawangan N.7 and Belia PBB N.7.

Fadillah also encouraged Sarawakian students to take full advantage of the Sarawak Government’s free tertiary education initiative, which aims to widen access to higher education and reduce the financial burden on families.

He urged students to make the most of the opportunities provided by the state government by working hard, pursuing their studies seriously and equipping themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to Sarawak’s future development.

He also highlighted the importance of understanding emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), as students prepare for a rapidly changing employment landscape.

Rather than allowing technological developments to become a distraction, students should learn to use AI and other digital tools responsibly to support their education, broaden their knowledge and strengthen their capabilities.

Meanwhile, Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said success was rarely achieved through an easy path, emphasising the importance of discipline, determination and making good choices from an early age.

Drawing from her own educational journey, she said students should be prepared to work hard, remain focused on their goals and face challenges with patience and perseverance.

“Success does not always come easily. We must be willing to work hard, remain patient and face challenges with strength and determination,” she said.

She also reminded students to manage their use of technology and social media wisely, particularly in an era when smartphones, Instagram, TikTok and other digital platforms compete for their attention.

While technology offers many opportunities, she stressed that students must remain disciplined and prioritise their education rather than allow digital distractions to undermine their progress.

The motivational session provided an opportunity for students to gain insights from the leaders’ experiences and perspectives on education, personal development and preparing for the future.

It also underscored the importance of equipping the younger generation with the right mindset, values and practical skills to face future challenges with confidence.