Youth participants of Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak’s (YPS) ‘Suara 2.0 programme’ have put forward several proposals aimed at enhancing access to education in the state, especially for working adults who wish to continue their studies. This was highlighted by Dato Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman.

During a press briefing after the conclusion of the Suara 2.0 event at Raia Hotel Convention Centre, he mentioned that the innovative ideas shared by the 60 participants truly reflect the genuine concerns and aspirations of the youth in Sarawak.

Empowering Working Adults

One notable suggestion arose from individuals who are currently employed yet desire to pursue further education. They expressed that, despite having jobs, they encounter challenges in obtaining support or navigating financial assistance.

Fazzrudin stated, “They asked how the government can assist people in this situation—and this is something worth looking into.”

The Tupong assemblyman noted that the youth participants also addressed issues related to free education, education loans, and other forms of academic support that could facilitate youth in their upskilling and professional growth endeavors.

Thoughtful Suggestions for Discussion

“There were many thoughtful suggestions. Some of these I may present to the state leadership or other relevant communities for discussion,” he added.

The three-day Suara 2.0 programme, organized by YPS, brought together 60 youths from various districts and institutions to brainstorm their vision for Sarawak’s future and discuss the themes surrounding this year’s topic, ‘Youth as Change Maker’.

Fazzrudin noted that while many participants expressed uncertainty regarding MA63 (Malaysia Agreement of 1963) and the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, the programme provided clarity on the state’s development direction.

Critical Youth Involvement

He emphasized the importance of youth involvement, stating that it is crucial not only for providing feedback but also for implementing and inheriting significant state initiatives such as the Sovereign Wealth Fund, hydrogen development, and green economy ventures.

“They are not just future leaders. They are contributors, implementers, and inheritors of the policies being rolled out today,” he stressed.

Fazzrudin commended YPS for creating a platform that empowers young Sarawakians to voice their ideas and align with the state’s long-term development goals.

A Purposeful Programme

According to a YPS press statement, the programme was held with a sense of purpose, empowerment, and confidence, enabling young people to contribute positively to their communities and advocate for Sarawak’s development.

The three-day sessions were viewed as impactful and informative, strengthening the alignment between policy, execution, and the mission to build a more competitive and resilient Sarawak.

Among the distinguished guest speakers were State Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development I (Higher Education and Innovation) Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee; Advisor in the Office of the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Jaul Samion; Unimas lecturer Professor Datu Dr Neilson Ilan Mersat; Sarawak State Attorney-General’s Chambers Khairul Anwar Shazali; Mohammad Safri Ibrahim of the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda); and Salina Bujang from the state Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development.

YPS manager Roslin Latip, Communication Manager Benedict Jimbau, Universiti Institute Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak Rector Dr Firdaus Abdullah, and programme moderator Dr Nur Aida Kipli were also present at the ceremony.

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