Youth urged to step forward as next-gen leaders to address global challenges, shape future partnerships

Dr Sim (front row, centre) joins other guests and participants in a group photo at the 2nd Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum at Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching on Oct 1, 2024.

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, Oct 1: Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called on the youth to step forward as the next generation of leaders, emphasising their crucial role in addressing global challenges and shaping future partnerships.

Dr Sim highlighted the importance of youth leadership in navigating the complexities of an increasingly globalised world.

“You are the generation that will face major challenges such as climate change, inequality, and geopolitical tensions.

“This is your opportunity to lead and ensure that the legacy of strong diplomatic relations continues for the next 50 years,” he said today at the 2nd Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum, at Borneo Cultures Museum here.

Dr Sim, who is also Sarawak Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government (MPHLG), further emphasised the significance of people-to-people connections in fostering long-lasting ties between nations.

“While government-to-government relations are important, it is the friendships between individuals that truly sustain diplomatic relationships,” he remarked, encouraging the youth to strengthen these connections.

The Deputy Premier pointed out that Sarawak’s own philosophy for 2030 focuses on shared prosperity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability—values that resonate with the forum’s goals.

“We want a future where everyone prospers together, where inclusivity is shared, and where we are all committed to environmental sustainability,” he said.

Dr Sim also urged the forum’s attendees to take advantage of the opportunities provided, to lead by example, and to foster partnerships that will benefit both their own communities and the broader Asean region.

“You are not just the leaders of tomorrow—you are the leaders of today, and the future depends on the choices you make now,” he remarked.

The 2nd Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum officially commenced today at Borneo Cultures Museum, aiming to provide an invaluable platform for exchanging ideas and expertise on cultural heritage conservation.

Themed ‘Harnessing Local Wisdom, Innovate to Protect Our Cultural Heritage’, the forum is hosted by Swinburne Innovation Malaysia, a subsidiary of Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, in partnership with the China Foundation for Cultural Heritage Conservation.

Running from Oct 1 to Oct 5, the forum gathers over 100 university students from more than 20 countries, with the aim of fostering dialogue and collaboration on the preservation of Asia’s rich cultural heritage.

It is focussed on empowering the next generation to take a leading role in safeguarding cultural heritage.

The forum will feature keynote addresses by prominent scholars and conservators, student presentations, and immersive cultural experiences.

Also present at the event was Swinburne Sarawak pro vice-chancellor and chief executive officer (CEO), Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho. — DayakDaily