KOTA SAMARAHAN: Youth bodies in the state and youth themselves can emulate the activities carried out by the young people of Samarahan division who managed to steer clear of mind-corrupting social activities.
Speaking to The Borneo Post after a press conference on Kota Samarahan Regatta 2011, newly appointed Youth Development Assistant Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said as far as he knew, youth activities were carried out in an orderly manner, especially those related to sports.
“We are quite lucky when it comes to infrastructure as Kota Samarahan and many areas are well equipped with sports complexes, halls and recreational facilities,” Abdul Karim said.
The Asajaya assemblyman added that he knew almost every kampong had such facilities for youths.
He noticed that such facilities were not lacking in Kuching, especially from Kampung Boyan to Kampung Bintawa, and he had brought the matter to the attention of the relevant authorities.
“We have no problem when it comes to holding activities,” he added.
On the development of youths in Samarahan, he said he wanted them to be involved in recreational activities and not be idle and restless.
“We should be tapping their potential during the youthful period especially those still studying in school or in places of higher learning. We should encourage them to be active in studies and sports,” he added.
Abdul Karim was impressed with youths in Samarahan who seem relatively free from problems created by drugs and alcohol.
“Of course we cannot run away from these social ills but the record here is good as they (youths) had probably engaged in sports and healthy activities,” he said.
He acknowledged that activities organised by youth agencies and departments had been of help to the youths of Samarahan, and he hoped they would continue with the good work.
Present were Sadong Jaya assemblyman Aidel Lariwoo and Samarahan Resident Rodziah Morshidi.