By Marlynda Meraw
KUCHING, Aug 10: A total of 18 children, aged 11 to 17, attended a swearing-in ceremony today to assume their roles as the first members of the Children’s Council at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) chamber.
The swearing-in ceremony was led by the children’s council’s president, 17-year-old Megan Lim Shin Lin from Kuching Borneo International School.
Megan expressed her gratitude and vowed to listen to the voices of her peers within the Children’s Council.
“I promise to listen to all of your voices, stand up for your (children’s) rights, and make sure our Children’s Council is a place where everyone feels included and empowered,” said Megan.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who attended the programme, congratulated the children and described it as a momentous event with the children’s involvement as a part of the governing side.
“We want to empower you (children), to give you the opportunity, to let you participate and think about the policies,” said Dr Sim during his speech.
Dr Sim explained that some policies might not suit certain groups, so the Children’s Council provides a voice for these communities, enabling policies to be amended to create a more inclusive society.
He also congratulated the mayor, the council, as well as the head of the department for taking the first step in establishing the Children’s Council.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng highlighted the significance of the ceremony as it symbolises an inclusive milestone in Sarawak’s journey towards becoming a more inclusive governance.
“I am proud to announce that we are, in fact, the first local government in Borneo to establish such a council (Children’s Council). This pioneering initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering civic engagement among our youth,” said Wee.
To Wee, establishing a Children’s Council is a bold step forward and a valuable way to ensure that the voices of the youth are not only heard but also respected in decision-making processes that affect the entire community.
“But remember, advocacy is just the beginning. You must also be prepared to act. As members of this (Children’s) Council, you have the unique opportunity to turn ideas into action,” he said. — DayakDaily
