SIBU: Sibu Municipal Council deputy chairman Dato Andrew Wong has advised those wishing to join the Sibu Youth Council (SYC) to forget about getting monetary gains.
“Rather, they should think how to go about serving the people as SYC is basically about promoting voluntary work and community spirit among the young people,” he said at a full council meeting yesterday.
He was answering councilor Chieng Jin Ek who asked about the privileges and allowance for members of SYC.
“If anyone asks you what the privileges for SYC members are, tell them this is not an area for them to get monetary gains but a platform to truly serve the community,” he reiterated.
Wong said SYC was part of the council’s `People First’ initiative to recognise the importance of young people in Sibu.
“SYC is also a good venue for young people to come together and present their views.”
He said the council would adopt and digest the views of SYC members.
“If the idea is good, it will be implemented.”
A special briefing would be held before the setting up of the SYC.
“Those aged between 21 and 35 who live in SMC areas are eligible,” he said, adding that 200 applications had been received, 15 per cent of them women.
“We want the council to have a proper gender balance. Perhaps, women are scared to commit themselves but all the same, we will encourage them to join SYC,” he said.
Wong said he would also encourage the staff of Kolej Laila Taib (KLT) to apply so that they can share their knowledge and experience.
“I will also talk to community leaders and associations to encourage more people to participate in the SYC.”
Application forms may be obtained from www.sibuyouthcouncil.org and for submission, email to [email protected] or call 084-335975.
The closing date is Feb 28.