KUCHING: Youths are partners for change as they can also play a major role in Sarawak’s tourism future, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts said that Sarawak Youth Talent (SYT) is not just another programme organised for the youth but an effective avenue for the ministry and the tourism stakeholders to work with them.
“When the idea about SYT was first presented to me back in 2019, I endorsed it immediately.
“I strongly believe that such a programme will reinforce our efforts in rebuilding and developing tourism and will have a lasting impact on our society.”
Abdul Karim’s speech was delivered by Hii Chang Kee, the permanent secretary of the ministry during the award-presentation ceremony for SYT 2022 held at UCSI Hotel Kuching, recently.
Abdul Karim said SYT 2022 promotes three key areas namely; responsible tourism, social inclusivity and environmental well-being.
“First, responsible tourism, which aims to minimise and reverse the effects of travel and the goal is to make products, attractions and destinations sustainable while maximising benefits for the local economy.
“Second, social inclusivity, which highlights that everyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their full potential in life and it is also defined as “a society for all”, in which everyone has an active role to play. No one should be left behind.
“Third, environmental well-being, which promotes the protection and preservation of our surroundings, including the air, water, objects, and land on which humans, animals, and plants live.
“As profound as these topics and issues may sound, they are not something too much or too early for our students to learn and practice.
“We believe every single one of them has talent. As they hold our future, it is of utmost importance that while their talent grows and manifests, they are inculcated with a sense of responsibility from a young age,” stressed Abdul Karim.
He also called on everyone to work together to foster the younger generation who are tomorrow’s leaders, adding “this is to realise responsible tourism for sustainable development, including preserving our culture, and heritage and safeguarding our nature and community.”
SYT 2022 achieved another milestone success with 428 posters and Tiktoks from university, college and secondary school students throughout Sarawak.
SYT registration started early this year and culminated with the award-giving ceremony on Aug 13 in conjunction with the celebration of International Youth Day which is designated by the United Nations and commemorated every year since the year 2000.
