KUCHING, Sept 19: Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has considered his position as new president of the Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (Saberkas) as a trust given by the state’s leadership.
“It is a trust and heavy responsibility that must be shouldered because the establishment of Saberkas involves our youths who need guidance from leaders for them to become future generation of leaders,” he said after former president Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg had declined re-nomination at this year’s 16th triennial meeting held in Miri earlier today.
Abdul Karim, who is Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, was previously the deputy president and his nomination for the presidency was nominated by the representative from Saberkas Semariang branch.
He was the sole candidate for that post.
The new deputy president post was awarded to Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi who is the Assistant Minister of Utilities (Electricity Supply).
Abdul Karim, who is also Sarawak Youth and Sports Minister, thanked Abang Johari for helming Saberkas during the 2017-2020 tenure and had led the association to achieve many milestones including its financial standings.
In his inaugural speech, he called on the delegates to continue their commitment in making Saberkas move forward especially for the benefit of local youths due to rapid progress in digital and communication technology that are affecting Sarawak and the country as a whole.
At the same time, Abdul Karim also aspires to empower local youths in digital economic activities while encouraging their involvement in several areas that will further strengthen the required skills and competencies.
“As a youth organisation that has nothing to do with politics, we will strive to guide and bring young people in Sarawak to be more dynamic and to shape a brighter future where they can participate in the development of the state and the local community.
“Saberkas membership is also open to youths regardless of race and religion because it was set up to encourage their involvement in the fields of economy, arts, culture, sports and other initiatives that will benefit them in the long run,” Abdul Karim said.
The state assemblyman for Asajaya also added that the youths are the most active members of the community and their number is almost half of the total population in Sarawak and also in Malaysia.
“Thus, the youths can shoulder the responsibility in contributing to the process of nation building and development which covers all aspects both in terms of politics, economy, social, culture or education.
“With our youths forming the backbone of our community and country, we at Saberkas will work hard and focus on improving the future of the local youths that will benefit the community that nurture them,” he added. – DayakDaily
