Abang Johari (fourth left) launches the GPS Youth Apps, witnessed by (from left) Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Masing, Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, and Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian.
KUCHING: The time will come for the younger generation to take over the mantle of safeguarding the interests of Sarawak, says Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the recent appointment of 765 councillors, 318 of whom are new faces, for the 24 local councils in Sarawak, reflected the Sarawak government’s aspiration to provide more opportunities to the younger generation to serve the state.
“The Sarawak government wants to balance the development of its human capital by providing more experience and exposure to the younger generation in shouldering responsibilities,” he spoke at the launch of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Zone 6 Roadshow at Lachau near Sri Aman, yesterday.
Acknowledging that some quarters might not be too happy with the younger generation being prioritised, Abang Johari said the policy was a rational one because the older generation would have to step down eventually.
“While the Sarawak government makes sure more doors are open to the younger generation, I hope they (youth) would be patient as well in moving up the ranks. The time will come for them (youths) to manage Sarawak.”
He also called upon the younger generation to pursue courses and seek expertise in the oil and gas industry as it was in line with the Sarawak government’s efforts in reclaiming the constitutional rights of Sarawak, especially on the lucrative natural resources.
The ceremony also witnessed the launch of GPS Youth Apps to encourage the younger generation to voice their ideas and opinions on various issues to the state leaders.
However, no specific timeframe was given when the apps would be available via Google Play Store and App Store.
Additionally, Abang Johari also announced a RM10-million fund to build a mini sports complex in Balai Ringin to realise the athletic potential of youths in the area.