The Council of Pig Children fertilizes the leadership of the younger generation

SIBU, 19 Sept: Establishment of Sibu Children's Council as an initial platform to shape the leadership of young generation and give them exposure to local government system.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Dato Amar Prof. I'm going to see Dr. Sim Kui Hian, said the involvement of children in the council not only gave them space to express their views but also helped them understand the functioning, role and power of local government.

He believes that the experience is essential for building leadership skills and providing early exposure to younger generations on administrative processes and ways of addressing issues in the community.

"We want to make sure that as Sarawak moves forward in the nation building, we have experience of replacement and placement lines.

"In the past many of us didn't have a chance like this. Today, our children at least have an opportunity to understand the ceremony, what is done by the ceremony and what is the power of the ceremony", he said while addressing the Second Sibu Cohort Children's Council Swearing-in Ceremony in Sibu Public Library Conference Hall, here today.

Dr Sim said members of the Sibu Children's Council also played a role in bringing other children's voices to the attention of local authorities, as well as learning how to solve problems through the right channels.

He said that the local authorities are the closest layer of government to the community because many daily services of citizens are closely related to them.

Meanwhile, Dr Sim said Sarawak wants local government development to reach international benchmarks, including in efforts to create a child-friendly environment.

He said seven out of 11 Children's Friendly Town Initiatives (CFCI) in Malaysia are in Sarawak, while the initiative will also be extended to other areas with Mukah and Dalat implementing the Children's Friendly Community Initiative.

"We may not be that far, but we're learning how to get there", he said.

The second cohort of Sibu Children's Council is composed of 22 members who were sworn in at the ceremony and will serve for two years under the supervision of Sibu Municipal Council (MPS).

Dr Sim also urged council members to seize the opportunity to build leadership and continue inter-cohort connections through alumni networks for future experience sharing and guidance.

In related developments, he stressed the importance of protecting children's rights covering aspects of education, protection, health and well-being, including from online threats as well as nutritional issues such as overweight and obesity.

He said the approach to children's rights and welfare should be adapted to current developments to ensure they grow up in a safe environment, get an education and access to appropriate facilities. -TVS